Pharmacy Dispenser/Counter Assistant

Purpose:

• To work alongside pharmacy technicians and under the supervision of the responsible pharmacist to ensure the safe, accurate and timely supply of prescribed medication to patients.
• To provide medicines-related and healthy lifestyle advice to patients as well as assisting in the smooth operation of the pharmacy.

Reports to: Pharmacy Manager/Pharmacist Manager___________

Key responsibilities:

• To be working towards or have completed an accredited NVQ level 2 (or equivalent) Dispensing Assistant training course under the guidance of the pharmacist.
• To select, label and dispense pharmaceutical products in accordance with a prescription by following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and complying with all legal requirements.
• To ensure the safe and correct transfer of dispensed items to patients.
• To accurately maintain Patient Medication Records (PMR) to ensure patient safety and in accordance with data protection requirements.
• To identify medicine related problems or queries and bring these to the attention of the pharmacist.
• To answer queries on the supply and availability of medicines, where it is within your competence.
• To receive stock in accordance with SOPs.
• To ensure the safe and appropriate storage of medicines.
• To assist with stock control and the maintenance of reasonable stock levels within the pharmacy environment.
• To liaise with other healthcare professionals to assist in the continuity of patient care across primary and secondary care
• To assist with service provision to care homes including the preparation of Monitored Dosage Systems.
• To respond to symptoms described by customers by following agreed protocols and using own knowledge and judgement.

Business performance:

• Promote and maintain good, long term customer relations.
• Develop and maintain relationships with all relevant Healthcare Professionals including GPs, practice and district nurses, care homes and action teams.
• Involved in taking helping KPI and budget performance.
• To actively provide locally commissioned services and to claim for this activity in the appropriate way.
• Ensure maximum reimbursement through accurate dispensing, purchasing and endorsing procedures, including any specific instruction from line manager.
• Secure existing business through the use of the Prescription Collection Service to a minimum level as agreed with line manager.
• Identify new opportunities to grow the business and seek line manager.
• Monitor and control operating expenses in order to maximize the profitability of the store.
• Ensure that the range and level of stock is maintained to a level that meets the needs of the business.
• Maintain high retail and dispensary housekeeping standards.
• Ensure high standards of security practice within the pharmacy premises.
• Attend meetings or training events called by the line manager/owner whether within or outside normal business hours.
• Monitor local competitor activity and respond accordingly, ensuring line manager is kept informed.
• Prepare and maintain a business plan for the store in collaboration with line manager.
• Structure and staff the store in accordance with the agreed personnel budget/staffing guidelines.
• Help manage staff, maintaining effective employee relations according to company policies and employment laws and ensure relevant HR procedures are followed.
• Facilitate the training & development of all staff, including implementing the appraisal process.
• Additional activities/responsibilities may be asked of your role i.e. offer a flu vaccination/anti-coagulant service etc.
• Undertake any additional duties associated with the conduct of the business when requested by the line manager.

Personal specification:

• To be working towards or have completed an accredited NVQ level 2 (or equivalent) Dispensing Assistant training course under the guidance of the pharmacist.
• Good attention to detail and high levels of concentration.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Excellent team working skills.
• Good level of IT literacy and numeracy
• A warm and friendly but professional attitude towards customers.
• An ability to respond to medical queries in a sensitive and professional manner.
• Experience of working in a retail environment (desirable).
• Experience of handling money and maintaining finance records
• To select and recommend suitable products and provide advice on their correct use.
• To provide advice on leading a healthy lifestyle.
• To refer to the pharmacist when appropriate.
• To assist with the engagement of patients onto advanced services such as MURs, NMS, Minor Ailments service.
• To maintain an up-to-date knowledge of medicines and minor ailments by reading journals, product information and training resources.
• To assist in providing pharmaceutical care to patients by carrying out reasonable duties as determined by needs of the business.

Job Types: Part-time, Permanent

Pay: £12.21-£13.50 per hour

Benefits:

• Company events
• Company pension
• Employee discount
• Store discount

Experience:

• Pharmacy: 2 years (required)

Licence/Certification:

• NVQ Level 2 in Dispensary (required)

Work Location: In person