HLT37121
Certificate III in Hospital or Health Services Pharmacy Support
Learn essential pharmacy support skills in medication dispensing, stock management, safety procedures, and pharmaceutical terminology for hospital and health service pharmacy roles.
This qualification equips learners to support pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in hospital and health service pharmacies. Training focuses on assisting with dispensing, stock management and safe handling of medicines in real clinical environments. Learners build practical skills in using pharmaceutical and medical terminology, maintaining records, and supporting efficient, safe and compliant pharmacy operations under pharmacist supervision.
Who This Course Is For
- People working in or seeking hospital or health services pharmacy support roles
- Individuals who enjoy detailed, process-driven work that contributes to medication safety
- Staff interested in building a career pathway in pharmacy, health administration or health support services
- Learners wanting a nationally recognised, workplace-based pharmacy qualification
- Those new to the health sector seeking an entry point into hospital or clinical support roles
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Assist with the preparation, dispensing and supply of medicines under pharmacist supervision
- Maintain pharmaceutical imprest stock, pack products and manage inventory and ordering
- Apply infection control, medication safety and WHS requirements in pharmacy settings
- Use medical and pharmaceutical terminology and maintain accurate pharmacy documentation
- Communicate effectively with pharmacists, technicians and clinical staff in health services
Course Snapshot
Qualification
Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance
Duration
12 Months
Funding
State funding availability in NSW, VIC and QLD. Federal incentive availability in NSW, QLD, and VIC.
This qualification comprises 13 units of competency.
Core Units
Entry Requirements
Participants will need an appropriate level of Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital (LLND) skills to engage effectively with this course. Upon enquiry, SWC will discuss LLND skills with participants to help determine any support that may be beneficial before training begins.
If undertaking this course as a Traineeship, participants are required to be employed on a regular basis in work that is relevant to the qualification being undertaken.
Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer
You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or Credit Transfer (CT) if you have supporting evidence of any prior education and work experience. These options can reduce your study load or shorten the duration of your course. For more information, please refer to the RPL and Credit Transfer Policy on our Support page.
Course Commencement
This course offers flexible start dates with rolling enrolments throughout the year.
Course Duration
Typically, 9-12 months, delivered flexibly via our workplace-based training model with self-paced learning, primarily on the job.
Course Delivery
This qualification is delivered in the workplace, with all training and assessment completed in real work environments. Learners are supported by an experienced workplace supervisor/mentor and receive an SWC Learning Guide and Resources to help gather workplace-specific evidence.
Training includes:
- One on one Trainer/Assessor sessions every 6–8 weeks
- Self-directed learning using SWC resources and workplace policies and procedures
- Regular support via email and phone
- Real time practice of skills in the workplace setting
The program is self-paced and competency-based, with most learners completing in 9-12 months. Ongoing enrolments available.
Assessment
You will be required to complete both knowledge based and practical assessments completed during work hours. These may include:
- Workplace observation
- Oral and written questioning
- Portfolio evidence
- Third party supervisor reports
- Simulated tasks (if required)
All assessment tools meet training package and compliance requirements.
Course Outcome
Upon successful completion, participants will be awarded the Certificate III in Hospital or Health Services Pharmacy Support (HLT37121) qualification.
Smart and Skilled Funding (NSW)
Eligible learners and employers in New South Wales may be able to access government subsidised training through the NSW Smart and Skilled program. Funding is subject to eligibility and availability. For full details, please visit our Funding page.
Skills First (VIC – Regional Only)
Eligible learners and employers in Regional Victoria may be able to access government subsidised training through the VIC Skills First program. Funding is subject to eligibility and availability. For full details, please visit our Funding page.
Career Start & Career Boost (QLD)
Eligible learners and employers in Queensland may be able to access government subsidised training through the QLD Career Start & Career Boost. Funding is subject to eligibility and availability. For full details, please visit our Funding page.
Fee for Service
If government funding is not available or eligibility criteria are not met, this course can be undertaken on a fee-for-service basis. Please refer to our price list for current course fees and up to date pricing.
Fee-for-Service Price List