Pharmacist Assistants at Clicks Group

Qualified Post Basic Pharmacist Assistants at Clicks

Healthcare is always changing, so people working in it need to know a lot and care about patients. Pharmacists and their helpers are very important because they make sure people get the right medicine and care.

Clicks Group – A big store in South Africa that includes pharmacies, has a great job opening for a trained Pharmacist Assistant in Pretoria.

This article explains what the job involves, what you need to qualify, and what it’s like to work in this role.

We want to help people understand what it takes to be successful in this job. We will also talk about why this job is important in healthcare, why it’s important to keep learning, and the good and bad things about working in a pharmacy like Clicks.

Pharmacy technicians have skills and duties above those of beginners. They are important parts of the pharmacy team, working with a licensed pharmacist to give many types of pharmacy services. They help the pharmacy run well, which improves patient care.

Qualified Post Basic Pharmacist Assistant contributes significantly to this aspect by:

Processing Prescriptions: 

• Accurately receiving, interpreting, and processing prescriptions under the supervision of a pharmacist.

Data Entry: 

• Maintaining accurate patient records and dispensing information in the pharmacy’s operating system.

Handling Payments: 

• Processing transactions efficiently and accurately.

Managing Filing Systems:

• Organizing and maintaining prescription files and other relevant documentation   

Liaising with Healthcare Professionals: 

• Communicating effectively with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers as needed, under the guidance of the pharmacist.

4. Accurate Compounding:

In some instances, pharmacists may need to prepare customized medications through compounding. A Qualified Post Basic Pharmacist Assistant with the necessary training and under the direct supervision of a pharmacist may assist in this process.

This requires:   

Following Compounding Procedures:

• Adhering strictly to established protocols and guidelines for preparing compounded medications.
• Correctly measure and combine ingredients, following the pharmacist’s directions exactly.
• Maintaining a Clean Compounding Environment: Ensuring a sterile and safe environment for compounding activities.

Proper Labeling and Documentation:

• Accurately labeling compounded medications and maintaining detailed records of the compounding process.

5. Provision of General Health Advice:

Within their defined scope of practice and under the guidance of the pharmacist, a Qualified Post Basic Pharmacist Assistant may provide general health advice to patients on over-the-counter (OTC) medications and basic health concerns.

This includes:

Assisting with OTC Product Selection: 

• Guiding patients in choosing appropriate OTC medications based on their symptoms and providing information on their usage and potential interactions.

Providing Information on Health and Wellness:

• Offering general advice on healthy lifestyles, disease prevention, and basic first aid.

Recognizing When to Refer: 

• Identifying situations that require the attention of a pharmacist or other healthcare professional and making appropriate referrals.

Promoting Health Awareness:

• Participating in health promotion campaigns and providing relevant information to the public.

6. High Standards of Housekeeping and Merchandise Display:

Maintaining a clean, organized and visually appealing pharmacy environment is crucial for both hygiene and customer experience. A trained pharmacist assistant helps by keeping the dispensary and nearby spaces neat and clean.

Organizing Merchandise: 

• Arranging OTC products and other items in an organized and attractive manner.

Stocking Shelves:

• Ensuring that shelves are adequately stocked and products are readily available.

Maintaining Expiry Date Awareness:

• Regularly checking and removing expired products from the shelves.

Adhering to Display Guidelines:

• Following company guidelines for product placement and promotional displays.

7. Ad Hoc Requirements as Per Operational Requirements:

The position at Clicks entails working 45 hours per week over 6 days. This indicates a full-time commitment with a schedule that may include weekends and public holidays, reflecting the operational demands of a retail pharmacy.   

Clicks Group explicitly states its commitment to the principles of Employment Equity. This means that they actively strive to create a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the demographics of South Africa and encourages applications from candidates from all backgrounds.

The Importance of Continuous Professional Development:

The healthcare field is constantly evolving, with new medications, treatment guidelines, and regulations emerging regularly. For a Qualified Post Basic Pharmacist Assistant, continuous professional development (CPD) is not just beneficial but essential. 

Engaging in CPD activities ensures that they remain up-to-date with the latest advancements, maintain their competency, and uphold the standards of the HPCSA. This can involve attending workshops, completing online courses, reading professional journals, and participating in other learning opportunities.   

The Retail Pharmacy Environment: Opportunities and Challenges

Working as a Qualified Post Basic Pharmacist Assistant in a retail pharmacy setting like Clicks Village Moreletta presents both unique opportunities and challenges:

Opportunities:

Direct Patient Interaction: 

• Retail pharmacies offer frequent opportunities for direct interaction with patients, allowing for the development of strong communication and interpersonal skills and the satisfaction of directly contributing to patient well-being.

Community Engagement:

• Retail pharmacies often serve as important healthcare hubs within their communities, providing accessible healthcare services and advice.   

Diverse Responsibilities: 

• The role of a Pharmacist Assistant in a retail setting can be quite varied, encompassing dispensing, stock management, administration, and customer service, offering a broad range of experiences.

Career Growth Potential:

• Within a large organization like Clicks, there may be opportunities for career advancement through further training and experience.  

Teamwork and Collaboration:

• Working as part of a pharmacy team fosters a collaborative environment where knowledge sharing and mutual support are encouraged.

Challenges:

High Volume and Fast-Paced Environment:

• Retail pharmacies can be busy environments, requiring efficiency, accuracy, and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously   

Dealing with Demanding Customers:

• Pharmacy staff may occasionally encounter customers who are stressed, unwell, or have specific demands, requiring patience and strong conflict-resolution skills.

Adherence to Strict Regulations:

• The pharmaceutical industry is heavily regulated, requiring meticulous attention to detail and strict adherence to procedures and legal requirements   

Ethical Dilemmas:

• Pharmacist Assistants may occasionally encounter ethical dilemmas that require careful consideration and adherence to professional guidelines.

Standing for Long Periods: 

• The job often involves standing for extended periods while dispensing medications and assisting customers.

The Significance of This Role in the Healthcare System:

Qualified Post Basic Pharmacist Assistants play a vital role in the broader healthcare system. They act as crucial support to pharmacists, enabling them to focus on more complex clinical tasks and patient consultations. 

By efficiently managing dispensing, stock, and administrative functions, they contribute to the overall efficiency and accessibility of pharmaceutical care. 

They are often the first point of contact for patients seeking medication and health advice, making their role in providing accurate information and compassionate care indispensable.   

Conclusion: A Rewarding Career Path for Dedicated Professionals

The position of a Qualified Post Basic Pharmacist Assistant at Clicks offers a rewarding career path for individuals who are passionate about healthcare, possess a strong attention to detail, and are committed to providing excellent patient care.

The role demands a diverse skillset, encompassing technical proficiency, interpersonal abilities, and a strong ethical foundation.

By meeting the minimum requirements, embracing continuous learning, and demonstrating the outlined competencies, successful candidates will become integral members of the pharmacy team, contributing significantly to the health and well-being of the community they serve.

The dynamic environment of a retail pharmacy, while presenting its challenges also offers unique opportunities for professional growth, direct patient interaction, and the satisfaction of making a tangible difference in people’s lives.

For those who are qualified, dedicated and seeking a fulfilling career in pharmaceutical care this opportunity at Clicks represents a chance to contribute their expertise to a reputable organization committed to quality healthcare services and employment equity.

Aspiring candidates are encouraged to carefully review the requirements and apply to embark on a meaningful and impactful career journey.

Joining Clicks means becoming part of a reputable and established organization that offers more than just a job; it provides a platform for career growth, personal development and a sense of belonging.

Here are just a few reasons why a career with Clicks could be the right fit for you:

Growth Opportunities:

• Clicks is committed to investing in its employees and offers various training and development programs to help you enhance your skills and advance your career.   

Stable and Reputable Company:

• With a long-standing history and a strong presence in the South African retail market, Clicks provides a stable and secure working environment.

Diverse and Inclusive Culture:

• We value diversity and believe in creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and empowered.

Team-Oriented Environment:

• You will be part of a supportive and collaborative team where your contributions are valued.

Opportunity to Make a Difference:

• You will have the opportunity to positively impact the lives of our customers by providing them with valuable health and wellness solutions.

Competitive Compensation and Benefits:

• Clicks offers competitive salaries and benefits packages.

Employee Discounts:

• Enjoy discounts on a wide range of Clicks products.

Contribution to a Well-Known Brand: 

• Be part of a brand that is trusted and recognized by millions of South Africans.

Take the Next Step:

• Embark on Your Clicks Journey

If you are an individual who is passionate about communication, driven to achieve goals, and eager to contribute to a dynamic retail environment, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity at Clicks. This is more than just a job; it’s a chance to build a rewarding career with a company that values its people and offers a platform for growth and success.

By bringing your skills in presenting information and your dedication to achieving personal work goals, you will play a vital role in our continued success and in providing exceptional service to our valued customers. Join the Clicks team and become part of a vibrant and rewarding journey where your contributions truly matter. We look forward to welcoming you