Dispenser in Chelmsford

The Beacon Health Group Partnership operates over three sites. The main site, Danbury Medical Centre is based in the village of Danbury. We have two smaller branch sites which are Mountbatten House Surgery (based in North Springfield) and Moulsham Lodge Surgery (based in central Chelmsford). The Beacon Health Group is now able to offer our patients a wider variety of services ranging from chronic disease clinics to minor surgery services (performed within the new purpose built Minor Surgery Suite based at Danbury). We also provide Friday extended morning appointments between 7.00am-8.00am, and Monday evening appointments between 6.30pm-8.00pm provided by GPs, Pharmacists and Nurses.

With our patients at the forefront of every decision made, the Beacon Health Group offers further value to the health of our existing patients and also that of new patients coming to the area. Danbury Medical Centre is seeking a motivated, reliable and patient-focused Dispenser to join our busy dispensary team. The successful candidate will play an essential role in ensuring the safe, accurate and efficient dispensing of medication to our patients while providing an excellent level of customer service.

Working as part of a multidisciplinary team, you will support the day-to-day running of the dispensary, maintaining high standards of patient care, confidentiality and compliance with NHS regulations and practice policies. Experience using SystmOne is desirable. The position will be for 24 hours per week on the following pattern:

• Monday - 08:00 - 14:00
• Tuesday - 13:00 - 19:00
• Thursday - 08:00 - 14:00
• Friday - 13:00 - 19:00

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Process all acute and repeat prescriptions authorised by GPs and prescribing clinicians.
• Dispense prescriptions accurately and efficiently in accordance with current legislation, practice procedures and NHS guidance.
• Process monitored dosage systems (dosette boxes) accurately and within agreed timescales.
• Collect prescription charges where applicable and ensure patient declarations on FP10 forms are completed correctly.
• Maintain accurate dispensing records using the SystmOne clinical system.
• Answer dispensary telephone calls promptly and deal with patient, pharmacy and healthcare professional enquiries in a professional manner.
• Liaise with GPs, nurses, community pharmacies and other healthcare providers regarding prescription queries.
• Manage dispensary stock, including ordering, receipt, rotation, storage and stock control to minimise waste.
• Check expiry dates and ensure medicines are stored safely and in accordance with legal requirements.
• Receive, record and safely dispose of unwanted or returned medication following current regulations.
• Support the investigation and resolution of prescription and medication queries.
• Assist in maintaining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and ensure they are always followed.
• Participate in regular stock takes and audits.
• Ensure the dispensary is kept clean, organised and compliant with infection prevention and health and safety standards.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with GDPR, NHS Confidentiality Code of Practice and practice policies.
• Assist with administrative tasks relating to the dispensary and wider practice when required.
• Work collaboratively with all members of the practice team to provide a high-quality service to patients.
• Participate in mandatory training, practice meetings and continuous professional development.
• Undertake any other reasonable duties required to support the smooth and efficient running of the dispensary and Danbury Medical Centre as directed by the Dispensary Manager, Dispensary Lead GP or Practice Manager.

Person Specification

Essential Qualifications

• NVQ Level 2 in Pharmacy Services (or equivalent recognised dispensing qualification) as a minimum.

Experience

• Previous experience working as a dispenser within a GP surgery dispensary.
• Excellent knowledge of medications and dispensing procedures within a clinical setting.
• Experience of using clinical computer systems, preferably SystmOne.
• Experience of stock management and medicines control.
• Experience of handling confidential patient information.

Knowledge and Skills

• Excellent attention to detail with a high level of accuracy.
• Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures and practice protocols.
• Good understanding of NHS prescribing and dispensing procedures.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a patient-centred approach.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Ability to prioritise workload and work effectively under pressure.
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office and clinical systems.
• Professional, reliable and flexible approach to work.
• Commitment to always maintaining patient confidentiality.
• Willingness to undertake further training and professional development.

Desirable

• Experience using SystmOne in a GP practice.
• Experience of dispensing appliance prescriptions and monitored dosage systems.
• Knowledge of the NHS Drug Tariff and prescription exemptions.
• Experience participating in dispensary audits and quality improvement initiatives.
• Understanding of Controlled Drugs legislation and safe handling procedures.
• Current first aid or basic life support training.

The benefits of joining our organisation include:

• Access to the NHS Pension
• NHS Benefits – such as discounts at various major brands
• Generous Holiday Entitlement
• Competitive Rates of Pay
• Company Sick Pay Scheme

If you think this opportunity is suitable to you, then please apply as we would love to hear from you. If you have any questions about the role, please do not hesitate to contact us. The Beacon Health Group strives to be an equal opportunities employer.