At a Glance
- Tasks: Dispense medications accurately and support patients with prescription queries.
- Company: Join a friendly team at Debenham Group Practice, part of Suffolk Primary Care.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, NHS pension, and generous annual leave.
- Other info: Opportunities for training and professional development in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in patient care while working in beautiful rural locations.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 2 in Pharmacy Services required; experience in dispensary preferred.
The predicted salary is between 26084 - 28118 £ per year.
We are looking for an experienced Dispenser to join our warm and supportive team. Our dispensary team plays a key part in looking after our patients making sure their medicines are prepared safely, accurately and on time, while offering friendly advice and support along the way. You will be part of a close-knit, welcoming group of colleagues who work together across all three of our village surgeries. We help each other out and take pride in providing an excellent service to our patients and colleagues.
Why join us?
- A genuinely friendly and supportive team
- Opportunities for further training and development
- Being part of Suffolk Primary Care, an at-scale group of practices sharing ideas and best practice
- Beautiful rural locations and loyal patient communities
If you would like to be part of a team that looks out for one another and takes pride in patient care, we'd love to hear from you.
Main duties of the job
The Dispenser is responsible for the safe, efficient, and accurate preparation and dispensing of medications in line with legal and clinical standards. Working as part of the dispensary team, you will ensure high standards of service to patients whilst contributing to the smooth day-to-day operation of the dispensary, including stock management, prescription processing, and administrative duties. The role requires strict attention to detail, confidentiality, and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) at all times.
Responsibilities
- Dispensing & Patient Services: Dispense and issue medications in accordance with legal requirements and SOPs. Hand out prescriptions to patients, checking exemptions and collecting appropriate charges (NHS and private). Provide dosette boxes and support patients with medication queries or concerns. Liaise with GPs or review patient records where prescription appropriateness is in question. Process repeat prescriptions in line with protocols.
- Administrative Duties: Maintain accurate electronic records, including CD (Controlled Drugs) registers. Sort, endorse, and submit prescriptions for reimbursement via NHS Prescription Services (NHSBSA). Action prescription-related messages, tasks, and emails (e.g. AskmyGP or SystmOne notifications). Support audits, including DSQS patient reviews and internal compliance checks.
- Stock & Inventory Management: Order, receive, and check deliveries; process discrepancies and credit claims. Rotate stock, remove expired medications, and ensure safe storage of drugs, including refrigerated items. Carry out regular stock checks and maintain appropriate stock levels to avoid wastage. Manage and safely dispose of pharmaceutical waste and returned medications, including controlled drugs.
- Compliance & Quality Assurance: Ensure dispensing practices meet all legal and ethical standards. Participate in the implementation and review of SOPs following legislative or procedural changes. Action MHRA drug alerts and recalls appropriately. Maintain cleanliness and safety of dispensary workspaces and equipment.
- Team Support & Professional Development: Provide support and cover for team members during absences. Attend and contribute to dispensary meetings. Remain up to date with developments in dispensing practice, policies, and systems. Assist in training or mentoring junior staff where appropriate.
Training and Qualifications
- NVQ Level 2 in Pharmacy Services (or equivalent) is essential.
- Commitment to continued professional development and refresher training.
- Understanding of data protection and patient confidentiality obligations.
Person Specification
- Experience: Essential - Experience working in a dispensary or pharmacy environment. Desirable - Experience working in a GP practice or NHS primary care setting.
- Qualifications: Essential - NVQ Level 2 in Pharmacy Services (or equivalent recognised qualification), GCSE grade A to C in English and Maths. Desirable - NVQ Level 3 or additional pharmacy/medicines training.
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Dispenser in Stowmarket employer: National health service
At Debenham Group Practice, we pride ourselves on fostering a genuinely friendly and supportive work environment where our dispensary team plays a vital role in patient care. With opportunities for professional development, a commitment to employee well-being, and the chance to work in beautiful rural locations, we offer a rewarding career for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their community.
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We think this is how you could land Dispenser in Stowmarket
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We think you need these skills to ace Dispenser in Stowmarket
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