Community Pharmacy Assistant

Program Overview

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The Community Pharmacy Assistant program at Conestoga College is a one-year Ontario College Certificate program that prepares graduates for careers as Pharmacy Assistants. Through theoretical instruction, hands-on laboratory experience, and a work placement, graduates gain the knowledge and skills to assist with dispensing and compounding medications, provide patient education, manage inventory, and collaborate with other healthcare professionals within the pharmacy team. The program emphasizes professionalism, ethical practice, and the development of strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Graduates are prepared to work in a variety of pharmacy settings, including pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities.

Program Outline

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Community Pharmacy Assistant Program Analysis

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Degree Overview:

• Objectives: The program aims to prepare graduates for careers as Pharmacy Assistants by equipping them with the knowledge and skills required to perform various tasks within community pharmacies, including:
• Assisting with dispensing and compounding medications
• Providing patient education and medication counselling
• Managing pharmacy inventory and ordering supplies
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals within the pharmacy team
• Description: This one-year Ontario College Certificate program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of medical conditions and medications, pharmacy practice, and inventory management.
Through theoretical instruction, hands-on laboratory experience, and a work placement, graduates will gain the necessary skills and knowledge to work in a variety of pharmacy settings.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

• Medical Conditions and Medications: Students will learn about various medical conditions, their medications, and their effects on the body.
• Professional Practice: This focuses on the legal and ethical responsibilities of Pharmacy Assistants, as well as communication skills and patient interaction techniques.
• Inventory Management: Covers essential skills for ordering, receiving, storing, and dispensing medication within a pharmacy setting.

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Structure and Schedule:

• The program is delivered full-time over two terms (fall and winter).
• Each term includes a combination of theoretical instruction, laboratory exercises, and a work placement.

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Assessment:

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Methods:

• Assessment methods may include a combination of exams, assignments, presentations, and practical assessments within labs and the work placement.
• The specific methods employed for each course are likely outlined within individual course descriptions or program resources.

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Criteria:

• Evaluation criteria will likely focus on demonstrating knowledge and understanding of the program's learning outcomes, as well as the ability to apply theoretical concepts in practical situations.

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Teaching:

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Methods:

• Teaching methods likely involve a combination of lectures, tutorials, laboratory sessions, guest speakers, and online learning resources.
However, the program's focus on integrating theory, practical experience, and a work placement suggests an emphasis on applied learning and real-world application of skills.

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Careers:

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Career Paths:

• Graduates can pursue careers as Community Pharmacy Assistants in various settings, including:
• Pharmacies
• Hospitals
• Long-term care facilities
• Compounding pharmacies
• Pharmaceutical companies

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Opportunities:

• The program prepares graduates to work in a diverse range of pharmacy environments, offering flexibility in career choices.
• Opportunities for career advancement and specialization within the pharmacy field may also exist.

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Outcomes:

• The program aims to equip graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to secure employment as Pharmacy Assistants and contribute effectively to the healthcare team within their chosen pharmacy setting.

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Other:

• The program emphasizes professionalism and ethical practice, preparing students to interact effectively with patients and other healthcare professionals.
• It also incorporates opportunities for students to develop strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.