Dispenser in Bawtry

Main duties and responsibilities

• Dispensing
• Prepare, label and dispense acute and repeat prescriptions accurately and efficiently.
• Ensure prescriptions are legally valid and raise any concerns or discrepancies with the appropriate clinician.
• Carry out dispensing and accuracy-checking duties within the limits of the postholder's training and competence.
• Ensure the correct medication, strength, quantity and dosage instructions are supplied.
• Maintain accurate records of all medication dispensed.
• Prepare monitored dosage systems where required and in accordance with practice procedures.
• Process medication owing to patients and ensure outstanding items are supplied promptly.
• Refer medication‑related questions or clinical concerns to the appropriate clinician or pharmacist.
• Follow practice procedures for the safe handling and dispensing of controlled drugs.
• Patient service
• Provide a friendly, helpful and professional service to patients.
• Hand out medication following the appropriate identity and safety checks.
• Collect NHS prescription charges and check evidence of exemption where required.
• Advise patients when medication is unavailable or delayed and agree suitable arrangements.
• Respond to routine prescription and dispensing enquiries in person and by telephone.
• Maintain patient dignity, confidentiality and privacy at all times.
• Manage difficult or sensitive conversations calmly and professionally.
• Stock management
• Order medication and other dispensary supplies from approved wholesalers.
• Receive deliveries and check them accurately against orders and invoices.
• Store medication safely and in accordance with manufacturers requirements.
• Monitor stock levels and help ensure the dispensary maintains appropriate supplies without unnecessary over‑ordering.
• Rotate stock and regularly check expiry dates.
• Remove and process expired, damaged or recalled medication in accordance with practice procedures.
• Monitor refrigerated medication and record fridge temperatures as required.
• Support the management of drug alerts, recalls and supply shortages.
• Help identify cost-effective alternatives and minimise unnecessary waste.
• Administration and governance
• Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date records on the clinical system.
• Follow all practice policies and standard operating procedures.
• Record and report dispensing errors, near misses and significant events.
• Participate openly in reviews and learning following dispensing incidents.
• Support the practice in meeting the requirements of the Dispensing Services Quality Scheme.
• Assist with dispensary audits, stock checks and quality‑improvement work.
• Work in accordance with data protection, confidentiality, infection prevention and health and safety requirements.
• Complete all mandatory and role‑specific training within the required timescales.
• Teamworking
• Work collaboratively with the Dispensary Manager, dispensers, GPs, nurses, pharmacy team, reception staff and other colleagues.
• Communicate clearly regarding medication queries, supply issues and patient concerns.
• Support colleagues during busy periods, annual leave and sickness absence.
• Contribute to dispensary and wider practice meetings where required.
• Help maintain a positive, respectful and supportive working environment.
• Assist with the induction and training of new team members when appropriate.
• Undertake other reasonable duties appropriate to the role and level of responsibility.
• General responsibilities

The postholder must

• Work within their level of competence and seek guidance whenever necessary.
• Treat patients and colleagues with dignity, respect and fairness.
• Protect confidential and sensitive information obtained during their employment.
• Follow safeguarding procedures and report any concerns appropriately.
• Comply with the practices equality, diversity and inclusion commitments.
• Take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others.
• Participate in supervision, appraisal and ongoing professional development.
• Maintain a flexible approach to meet the operational needs of the dispensary and practice.
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