Apprentice Dispenser

The learner will have the opportunity to train to be a dispenser (providing prescriptions medicines to patients at the request of the prescribing clinicians) and support the delivery of a high-quality dispensing service to patients, carers and others visiting and/or otherwise contacting the dispensary.

Principal Responsibilities:

• Adhere to current practice Standard Operating Procedures and Protocols regarding the processing of prescriptions.


• Receive and transfer prescriptions.


• Collect repeat prescription requests from the appropriate post points.


• Process prescription requests from repeat, secondary care and as per GP request.


• Deal with patient enquiries both face to face, via electronic message and over the telephone; explain procedures to new patients; ensure all required documentation is completed.


• Respond promptly and appropriately to patient needs e.g. queues, confusion, sickness, calling for help as and when required to do so.


• Ensure that refrigerated items are stored at the appropriate temperature and to maintain a temperature control record/logbook.


• Dispose of patient returned, unused medicines and sharps bin returns.


• Ensure that the dispensary is kept clean to maintain a high level of hygiene and that all equipment is in good working order.


• Monitor refrigerator temperature and report any anomalies.


• Bag dispensed items as appropriate to await collection.


• Use the Practice clinical system (SystmOne) to process and record. information in an accurate and timely fashion in accordance with


• Practice policies and procedures.


• Adhere to PPE and other safety requirements.


• Work towards being a competent and independently working dispenser.


• To work as part of the busy team providing basic administration support and to develop customer service skills.


• To adhere to the strict rules on confidentiality.


• Any other duties as requested., The learner will be studying the Pharmacy Services Assistant Level 2 Apprenticeship Standard qualification.


• Day release to West Suffolk College.


• Functional skills will be studied if equivalent qualifications are not held.


Things to consider

The role involves accuracy as you will training to dispenser (give the correct tablets) to the patient as per the instructions from the clinician.
The role involves standing and unpacking of boxes. The role involves a lots of computer screen time.

Skills required

Array

Future prospects

Several of our apprentices have been offered a permanent role at the end of their apprenticeship. Some have expanded their role to include
clinical skills including giving patients advice about giving up smoking or performing ECGs.

Hours per week 37
Working week Monday - Friday, between 9am and 5pm. There will be some 8am starts and some 6pm finishes.
Apprenticeship standard Pharmacy services assistant (Level 2)

Ideally minimum 5 GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above including Maths and English.