Pharmacist Internship at Mediclinic Panorama

MediClinic is inviting passionate and qualified candidates to apply for their Pharmacist Internship program. This program is tailored for recent graduates eager to gain practical experience within a top-tier healthcare setting. Successful interns will have the chance to work alongside seasoned pharmacists, assisting in patient care and pharmacy operations while honing essential skills in pharmaceutical practice.

For those dedicated to advancing their pharmacy careers and making a significant contribution to healthcare, MediClinic offers an exciting opportunity to join their esteemed team.

Pharmacist Internship Overview:

• Location: Mediclinic Panorama, Panorama, Cape Town, South Africa
• Closing Date: 19 August 2024
• Number of Positions: 2
• Recruiter Contact: Philippa Vanda Botha
• Reference Number: 52639
• Workplace Type: On-site, Fixed Term

Main Purpose of the Role

The primary objective of the Pharmacist Intern role at Mediclinic Panorama is to assist in delivering a comprehensive, professional, and cost-effective pharmaceutical service to both in-hospital patients and the public. This entails a range of responsibilities that ensure the smooth operation of the pharmacy while providing exceptional patient care.

Key Responsibilities

• Inventory Management: Regularly monitor inventory levels to ensure that all necessary medications and scheduled substances are in stock. This involves conducting routine checks, identifying low-stock items, and placing orders promptly to prevent shortages.
• Supplier Coordination: Liaise with pharmaceutical suppliers to ensure timely delivery of medications. Establish and maintain good relationships with suppliers to negotiate favorable terms and resolve any supply issues swiftly.
• Compliance: Ensure that all medications and substances are stored in compliance with legal and safety regulations. This includes maintaining proper storage conditions such as temperature and humidity controls, and ensuring secure storage for controlled substances.
• Documentation: Keep accurate records of all inventory transactions, including receipts, disbursements, and any discrepancies. This helps in tracking inventory levels and identifying any potential issues early on.
• Prescription Verification: Carefully review prescriptions to ensure they are complete, accurate, and legally compliant. Verify patient information, dosage instructions, and potential drug interactions.
• Preparation and Labeling: Prepare medications according to prescription requirements, ensuring correct dosages and formulations. Accurately label each medication with the patient’s information, dosage instructions, and any necessary warnings or precautions.
• Patient Education: Provide patients with clear instructions on how to use their medications safely and effectively. This includes explaining dosage schedules, potential side effects, and any specific precautions they should take.
• Quality Assurance: Implement quality control measures to ensure the accuracy and safety of dispensed medications. This includes double-checking all prepared prescriptions and conducting periodic audits to maintain high standards.
• Stock Rotation: Implement stock rotation practices to ensure that older stock is used first, reducing the risk of expired medications. Regularly check expiration dates and remove expired or soon-to-expire items from inventory.
• Inventory Audits: Conduct regular inventory audits to verify stock levels and identify any discrepancies. Investigate and resolve any discrepancies promptly to ensure accurate inventory records.
• Cost Management: Monitor stock levels to optimize inventory costs while ensuring that sufficient stock is available to meet patient needs. This involves balancing the need to minimize stockouts with the goal of reducing excess inventory.
• Waste Reduction: Implement strategies to minimize waste, such as optimizing order quantities and ensuring proper storage conditions. Educate staff on best practices for handling and dispensing medications to reduce wastage.
• Automated Systems: Utilize pharmacy management systems to streamline stock management processes. This includes using software to track inventory levels, generate orders, and manage stock rotation.
• Clinical Support: Assist clinical pharmacists in providing direct patient care, including medication therapy management and participation in clinical rounds. This helps in gaining practical experience in clinical pharmacy.
• Customer Service: Provide exceptional customer service to all pharmacy patrons, addressing their queries and concerns with professionalism and empathy. This enhances the patient experience and builds trust in the pharmacy services.
• Professional Development: Engage in ongoing professional development activities, such as attending workshops and seminars, to stay current with advancements in pharmacy practice and healthcare.
• Team Collaboration: Work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive and coordinated patient care. This includes communicating effectively with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare staff.
• Regulatory Compliance: Stay informed about changes in pharmacy regulations and ensure that the pharmacy operations remain compliant. This includes keeping up-to-date with new legislation and implementing necessary changes in procedures.

Minimum Requirements

• Essential: Bachelor of Pharmacy (B Pharm)
• Desired: None
• Essential: No prior experience required
• Desired: None

Required Skills and Knowledge

• Legislation: Familiarity with relevant legislation such as the Medicines and Related Substances Control Act.
• Financial Management: Understanding of financial management within a pharmacy context.
• Pharmacy Practices: Knowledge of good pharmacy practices.
• Medical Aid: Awareness of medical aid schemes, their benefits, regulations, and formularies.
• Clinical Pharmacy: Knowledge in clinical pharmacy and antimicrobial stewardship.
• Pharmacy Systems: Experience with pharmacy systems (e.g., UNISOLVE, AS400).
• Computer Literacy: Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Product Knowledge: Ethical knowledge of pharmaceutical products.

Benefits of Joining MediClinic

The MediClinic Pharmacist Internship program is a unique opportunity to learn and grow within a supportive and professional environment. Interns will receive hands-on training in various aspects of pharmacy practice, including:

• Patient Interaction: Developing communication skills through direct patient interaction and consultation.
• Team Collaboration: Working as part of a multidisciplinary team to deliver high-quality healthcare.
• Skill Enhancement: Gaining practical experience in dispensing, stock management, and clinical pharmacy.
• Mentorship: Guidance from experienced pharmacists and healthcare professionals.
• Professional Relationships: Establishing connections that can be valuable throughout their career.

How to apply

1. Review the Job Details:

• Ensure you meet all the qualifications and requirements listed in the job description for the Pharmacist Internship at Mediclinic Panorama.

2. Prepare Your Documents:

• Resume/CV: Include your educational background, relevant skills, and any experience.
• Cover Letter: Write a brief cover letter detailing your interest in the internship and how you meet the requirements.
• Educational Certificates: Provide a copy of your Bachelor of Pharmacy (B Pharm) degree.

3. Submit Your Application:

• Upload Documents: Attach your resume, cover letter, and educational certificates as specified.
• Complete Details: Fill out all required fields in the application form accurately.

4. Review and Confirm:

• Verify Information: Double-check all entered information and uploaded documents for accuracy.
• Submit Application: Click the submit button to finalize your application.

Note for Internal Employees:

• If currently on a fixed-term contract with Mediclinic, please apply using an external candidate profile.

Note: All applications will be reviewed with preference given in alignment with Mediclinic Southern Africa’s Employment Equity Plan, and internal candidates who meet the minimum requirements. Internal employees on a fixed-term contract should apply using an external profile.