The pharmacy team

When you visit your local pharmacy, you may notice that there are a number of people working there. Each person has a different role but all share the same goal – to ensure you stay healthy and get the best possible medicines experience.

The pharmacist

Pharmacists study at university for four years and then have a year ‘in practice’ before qualifying. They are the experts in the use of medicines for the treatment of disease. For services like allergy screening, pharmacists undergo additional approved training. Pharmacists keep their knowledge up to date during their career with compulsory continuing professional development.

Pharmacy support staff

Pharmacy support staff are often the first people you see in a pharmacy and they work under the direct supervision of the pharmacist. Members of the pharmacy support staff team include:

Medicines counter assistant

Medicines Counter Assistants help to support the pharmacist in the delivery of services and the selling of medicines. Tasks include:

• Giving advice on self-limiting illnesses such as colds and coughs
• Giving healthy lifestyle support such as highlighting any public campaigns
• Some medicine counter assistants will also help out with other services such as simple  health checks, following appropriate training and accreditation.

Dispenser and dispensing assistants

Dispensers help the pharmacist to dispense prescriptions and manage dispensary stock. They also fulfill the roles of a Medicines Counter Assistant when required. To do the job, dispensers have to undergo training.

Pharmacy technician

Pharmacy technicians help the pharmacy in dispensing prescriptions and managing the dispensary. Like Dispensers and Medicines Counter Assistants they can also help with other services if they have training. Pharmacy Technicians are registered professionals. 

Accredited checking technician

Accredited checking technicians check the accuracy of dispensed items that have been assembled by another person.