In the February issue of Retail Pharmacy Assistants magazine, we spoke with Bryan Hann, Pharmacy Assistant from Midland Pharmacy and Compounding Centre WA, about his career highlights, challenges and tips for working in pharmacy.
How long have you been working for Midland Pharmacy?
I have been working at Midland Pharmacy and Compounding Centre now for one year and six months (from August 2019 to now).
Do you have a background in pharmacy?
I am now coming into my ninth year in pharmacy. I first began my career in 2012, in a small, picturesque town called Esperance in WA, at TerryWhite Chemists and was their vitamin co-ordinator. Over the years I have moved to another two pharmacies in Esperance, including Castletown Chemist, before moving to Perth and working at a pharmacy in Midland. I then moved to Midland Pharmacy and Compounding Centre in 2019.
What do you enjoy most about working in pharmacy?
The things that I enjoy the most within pharmacy and especially within my current role is the ability to help people and to offer them a complete solution to their concerns. Whether or not they take on the advice, I feel it’s imperative as a pharmacy assistant to always let patients know of products that can assist in giving them a complete health solution. I also [more specifically] love when they come back to the pharmacy and say ‘thank you’ for the item I recommended as it really helped them – that’s what makes the job so worthwhile.
Are there any positive customer interactions that stand out most to you, and if so why?
Over the years there have been quite a few, but I always have to go back to my first year as pharmacy assistant. I was quite new, and I helped a customer in the cosmetic section (even though I really had no idea what I was doing!), and I helped the customer pick out a lipstick and a few other items. Little did I know that she was so impressed with the service she received that she wrote a handwritten letter to the manager and dropped it in later that week, complimenting my service – [saying] that I went above and beyond to make her feel important and to say a huge thank you.
What is one thing you think all pharmacy assistants should remember while working?
One thing I would have to say is to know your limitations and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Especially when it comes to products. Also, check and make sure it’s fine to recommend [certain products]. I have found by doing this (and talking through the steps with the patient) it allows the patient to feel important and that we care (which we do!).
What are your plans for the future, and does it involve pharmacy?
I hope I’m still working in community pharmacy. Otherwise, I’m really interested in doing my Certificate in Training and Assessment and possibly looking at becoming a trainer and assessor for pharmacy assistants. Another interest is to further my education and study natural health.
To read the full feature, as it appears in the February issue of Retail Pharmacy Assistants magazine, visit: rpassistants.com.au/magazines/retail-pharmacy-assistants-february-2020
