Day of job satisfaction in healthcare
Pharmacy assistants in the spotlight!
Today we are putting pharmacy assistants in the spotlight. You may see them often at the counter, but do you know what they do?
We take you behind the scenes of your pharmacy.
Because without assistants, your medication care wouldn't be safe!
What does a pharmacy assistant do?
Your pharmacy assistant is the first point of contact in the pharmacy. You can go to her (or him) with questions about your medication, side effects and health. She makes sure you get the right medication in the right way.
A pharmacy assistant:
- checks your medication for safety
- helps you choose nonprescription drugs, such as paracetamol or nasal sprays
- tells you how to use medications
- discusses with the pharmacist and primary care physician when necessary
- provides repeat prescriptions and supplies of medications
- helps with devices such as inhalers
This is important work, because medications only work well if you use them correctly. Find more information about safe use at:
Why is the profession so fun?
Apothecary assistants chose this profession because they love helping people. Every day they make a difference to your health. It is varied work: sometimes at the front desk, sometimes behind the scenes working on medication safety.
What makes this work fun?
- contact with many different people
- collaborate with primary care physician, pharmacist and health care providers
- continue to learn about medications and health
- contribute to a better and safer life
Sometimes difficult too: patients' anger or concerns
We understand that sometimes you are disappointed or concerned. For example, if:
- you get a different brand of medicine
- you have to wait for a delivery
- you have to add your own costs
Some people get angry at the counter. But pharmacy assistants choose this profession to help, not to make rules. Preference policies, health insurer rules and drug shortages are often beyond our control.
Though we always look for solutions that are good and safe for you.
Important task: medication safety
Apothecary assistants keep a close eye on your health:
- they check whether medications can go together
- they watch for allergies, pregnancy and other risks
- they prevent double use
- they spot problems and discuss them with you
You may only see the box, but we see the whole medication background. That helps prevent errors.
Much of this monitoring happens behind the scenes, but is essential to keep you safe.
A profession to be proud of
Job satisfaction comes from:
- thankfulness from patients
- the feeling that you are really helping someone
- teamwork and expertise
On this day, our assistants get to feel that extra!
