MEOPHAM MEDICAL CENTRE
JOB DESCRIPTION
JOB TITLE: DISPENSER (Maternity Cover - 12 month contract)
REPORTS TO: PRACTICE MANAGER AND DISPENSARY SUPERVISOR
Hours of Work - 14.5
- Tuesday: 1.00pm – 6.00pm
- Friday: 8.00am – 6.00pm (30-minute unpaid lunch break)
Summary
The post holder will support the safe, accurate and efficient dispensing of medication to eligible dispensing patients and provide excellent customer service at all times.
The post holder will work collaboratively with GPs, clinical pharmacists, practice staff and external healthcare professionals to ensure patients receive their medication safely and in a timely manner.
Key ResponsibilitiesDispensing Duties
- Dispense prescriptions accurately in accordance with legal, professional and practice requirements.
- Assemble, label and prepare medication for collection by patients.
- Undertake final accuracy checks where appropriately trained and authorised.
- Issue prepared prescriptions and stock items to patients.
- Collect prescription charges and verify exemption status where applicable.
- Respond professionally to patient enquiries regarding medication and dispensing services.
- Maintain accurate records of all dispensing activities.
- Liaise with GPs, pharmacists and other healthcare professionals regarding medication queries.
- Support the management and safe handling of controlled drugs in accordance with legislation and practice policy.
- Undertake Dispensary Review of Use of Medicines (DRUMs) where trained to do so.
- Assist with audits, recalls and medicines management initiatives.
Stock Management
- Order medicines, dressings and appliances from approved suppliers.
- Receive, check and unpack deliveries.
- Maintain effective stock control systems to ensure continuity of supply and minimise waste.
- Monitor and record refrigerator temperatures and ensure medicines are stored correctly.
- Rotate stock and remove expired items from shelves and storage areas.
- Process the return and safe disposal of unwanted or expired medicines.
- Take appropriate action in response to medicine recalls, safety alerts and MHRA notifications.
Administrative Duties
- Use the practice clinical system and associated software to maintain accurate records.
- Support achievement of dispensing and prescribing targets where appropriate.
- Participate in audits, service improvement projects and quality initiatives.
- Undertake any reasonable duties commensurate with the role.
Confidentiality
The post holder will have access to confidential patient, staff and practice information and must:
- Comply with Data Protection legislation and UK GDPR requirements.
- Maintain strict confidentiality at all times.
- Only disclose information in accordance with practice policies and authorised procedures.
- Follow practice information governance requirements.
Health and Safety
The post holder will:
- Follow all Health and Safety policies and procedures.
- Identify and report hazards, incidents or concerns.
- Adhere to infection prevention and control procedures.
- Use equipment safely and report faults promptly.
- Maintain a clean, tidy and safe working environment.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The post holder will:
- Treat all patients, colleagues and visitors with dignity and respect.
- Promote equality, diversity and inclusion in all areas of work.
- Deliver services in a non-judgemental and person-centred manner.
- Comply with practice policies and relevant legislation.
Personal and Professional Development
The post holder will:
- Participate in regular training and continuing professional development.
- Attend mandatory training sessions.
- Participate in annual appraisal and performance reviews.
- Maintain competencies relevant to the role.
Quality and Governance
The post holder will:
- Work within practice policies, standard operating procedures and dispensary protocols.
- Contribute to audit and quality improvement activities.
- Report incidents, near misses and risks appropriately.
- Support the delivery of safe, effective and high-quality patient care.
Communication
The post holder will:
- Communicate effectively with patients, colleagues and external organisations.
- Demonstrate excellent customer service skills.
- Adapt communication methods to meet individual patient needs.
- Promote positive working relationships across the practice team.
Person Specification (Desirable)
Essential
- Excellent communication and customer service skills.
- Good IT and keyboard skills.
- Ability to work accurately and maintain attention to detail.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality.
Desirable
- Qualified Dispenser or equivalent dispensing experience.
- Previous GP practice or community pharmacy experience.
- Knowledge of EMIS Web and EPS (Electronic Prescription Service).
- Experience of repeat prescription processing.
This job description is intended as a guide to the principal duties of the post and may be amended following consultation to meet the changing needs of the practice.
Job Types: Part-time, Permanent
Pay: £12.91-£13.50 per hour
Benefits:
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Meopham DA13 0AH: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience:
- Pharmacy: 1 year (preferred)
Work Location: In person
