Pharmacy and other dispensing assistants work under the supervision of pharmacists or other relevant health professionals to dispense drugs and medicines, issue pre-packaged prescriptions, sell over-the-counter medication, dispense spectacles and contact lenses and other related products.
Checks received prescriptions for legality and accuracy and confirms patients’ or customers’ details
Maintains records of prescriptions received and drugs issued
Checks stock levels, rotates stock, orders new stock from supplying companies and ensures that products are stored appropriately
Arranges displays of merchandise
Relays information to customers under the direction of pharmacist or other health professional
Carries out sales transaction, wraps and packages goods.
Entrants usually possess GCSEs/S grades. Training is typically received on-the-job, supplemented by study towards vocational qualifications. NVQs/ SVQs are available in relevant areas and at various levels, and apprenticeships may be available.