The role of pharmacy assistants has changed over the years. Traditionally, pharmacy assistants support licensed pharmacists by preparing prescription medications for patients, which can include locating the medication in inventory, counting pills or measuring liquids, placing the medicine in bottles or vials, and then affixing these with labels that include the patient's name and instructions for use. Preparing drugs from base ingredients may also be required if the prescribed product isn't in inventory.
While most modern pharmacy assistants still perform these duties, many have taken on new responsibilities as well. These duties involve significant face-to-face interaction with customers, including accepting prescriptions at the counter, working the cash register and reviewing medications’ directions.
What hasn't changed is that all these activities must still take place under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist, and only pharmacists can still answer customer questions and dispense advice.
Why has the role of the pharmacy assistant expanded? Much of it has to do with cost control. Pharmacy assistants cost less than pharmacy technicians, so assistants are far more cost-effective when it comes to performing routine assignments. For pharmacy assistants, it means more job opportunities, but it also puts more pressure on them to perfect their "behind-the-counter" skills when it comes to interacting with the public. Being a good "people person" is now just as important as one's knowledge of pharmacy operations.
Customer Service Part of Everest's Pharmacy Assistant Program
Because the role of the pharmacy assistant has expanded, customer service skills are a key part of the Pharmacy Assistant career education program offered by Everest College of Business, Technology and Health Care. Offered at the school's Toronto College Park campus and other locations throughout Ontario, the Pharmacy Assistant programs can, in less than a year, prepare a student to compete for entry-level positions in the pharmacies of retail stores, clinics, and other health care facilities throughout Canada.
The program is taught by veteran pharmacy technicians who are able to add real-world insights to the academic curriculum. Classes are small to promote student-teacher interaction, and hands-on practice in a simulated pharmacy environment helps students get accustomed to the workaday demands of the profession.
Upon graduation, Everest's Career Services team can help students transition into the workplace with help preparing resumes, practicing effective interviewing techniques and, most important of all, identifying and contacting potential employers in their area.
For more information about the Pharmacy Assistant program, contact Everest College's Toronto College Park campus today.
Financial assistance may be available for those who qualify.
