Dispensary Assistant

· To ensure that all medicines and appliances dispensed are checked against the prescription and whenever there is doubt about the appropriateness of the item, or about the dose or labelling instructions to check with the authorising doctor or duty doctor.

· To collect all due prescription charges and ensure that the patient declaration on the reverse of the FP10 is duly filled in and signed by the patient.

· To ensure that all monies received or handled on behalf of the practice are appropriately stored and banked and a record kept of all financial transactions.

· To endorse all prescription forms as appropriate, collate and forward the forms in a secure manner to the PPA for processing and reimbursement. The forms should be bundled in accordance with current PPA guidelines and include any necessary accompanying paperwork such as the FP34D and invoices as required by the PPA.

· To promptly forward all invoices and dispensary related correspondence to the practice manager or dispensary manager according to practice policy.

· To notify the authorising doctor of any FP10 returns/feedback from the PPA so that any appropriate remedial action may be taken.

· To operate efficient stock control appropriate to the needs of the practice with the objective of ensuring continuity of supply for patients and minimising wastage through out of date stock.

· To ensure that drugs are stored in an appropriate manner in accordance with the accompanying instructions.

· To ensure that shelves and all work surfaces are regularly cleaned to maintain a high level of hygiene within the dispensary and that all dispensary equipment is kept clean and kept in good working order.

· To take prompt action in response to any drug alert bulletins that may be received from time to time

· To ensure that refrigerated items are stored at the appropriate temperature and to maintain a temperature control record/logbook.

· To maintain full and accurate records of all dispensing transactions incorporating the use of computers when available and appropriate.

· To undertake any necessary work as may be required and appropriate to maintain a high standard and efficient dispensing service.

Academic/Vocational Qualifications

· NVQ level 2 for Dispensing Doctors or BTEC equivalent qualification in Dispensing (if Trained Post)

Knowledge & Skills

· Stock levels, usage tracking and re-ordering arrangements

· Analytical skills

· Competent IT skills

· Good telephone manner, even when under pressure

· Excellent communication skills

· Clear and concise

· Enthusiastic, honest and reliable

· Ability to prioritise work to ensure deadlines are met

· Ability to resolve problems & work with colleagues to implement solutions

Experience

· Experience of delivering an excellent service to patients in a pressurised environment

· Experience in handling confidential information

· Experience working under indirect supervision

Personal Qualities

· Friendly and approachable

· Good sense of humour

· Flexibility with working hours

· Motivated & hardworking

· Works well under pressure

· Good team player

· Ability to use their own initiative

· Attention to detail, accuracy

· Meticulous, tidy and methodical in your approach to working.

· Able to work as part of an integrated and multi-skilled team.

· Able to work with the general public

Physical Skills

· Ability to work for long periods without sitting down.

Other Requirements

· Full driving licence and own transport

· Pleasant, patient and confident manner

· An understanding of the need for strict confidentiality and adherence to policies and procedures