Support staff

As well as accrediting courses for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, we also accredit training courses for pharmacy support staff. Dispensing assistants and medicines counter assistants must have undertaken the appropraite training.

Dispensing assistant

A dispensing assistant (or pharmacy assistant) is involved in a range of duties within the pharmacy. They work under the supervision of a pharmacist and assist the pharmacist and pharmacy technician in the dispensing process. A dispensing assistant might work in a hospital pharmacy or community (retail) pharmacy and have varying roles and responsibilities.

Medicines counter assistant

A medicines counter assistant is involved in the sale of over-the-counter medicines and works under the supervision of a pharmacist. They are trained to offer advice on common ailments and must know when to refer a customer to a pharmacist.