Location: Kampala

Job Type: Full-time

Department: Pharmacy

Job Purpose:

To dispense prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications accurately, provide appropriate advice on medication use, and support the efficient running of the pharmacy in compliance with professional, legal, and ethical standards. The dispenser ensures patients receive the correct medicines and understand how to take them safely.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Dispensing Duties

• Receive, interpret, and process prescriptions from healthcare professionals.
• Accurately dispense medications based on prescriptions and verify dosage instructions.
• Label medicines with appropriate instructions, warnings, and patient details.
• Prepare and package medicines for individual patients.

2. Stock & Inventory Management

• Maintain and monitor stock levels of medications and supplies.
• Ensure medications are stored appropriately according to safety and expiry guidelines.
• Report low stock levels and assist in the reordering process.
• Remove expired or damaged medicines from circulation.

3. Customer & Patient Service

• Provide guidance to patients on how to take medications, potential side effects, and storage.
• Answer queries from patients regarding prescriptions and OTC products.
• Refer patients to the pharmacist or medical officer for complex queries or clinical concerns.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and provide services with empathy and professionalism.

4. Compliance & Record Keeping

• Ensure all dispensing practices follow national regulatory guidelines.
• Maintain accurate records of dispensed medications.
• Assist in preparing reports on stock usage and controlled drugs as required.
• Support adherence to infection control and safety standards in the pharmacy area.

5. Support Functions

• Help maintain cleanliness and organization in the pharmacy workspace.
• Assist the pharmacist and clinical team in daily operations as needed.
• Participate in continuous learning and training sessions.

Qualifications & Experience:

• A Certificate or Diploma in Pharmacy Dispensing or a related field from a recognized institution.
• At least 2 years of experience in a busy pharmacy, hospital, or clinic setting is preferred.

Key Competencies:

• Good knowledge of medications and basic pharmacology.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• High level of integrity and confidentiality.
• Good organizational and time management abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure and as part of a healthcare team.

Working Conditions:

• Based in a pharmacy/clinic setting.
• May involve standing for long periods and interacting with patients regularly.
• Shift work or weekend duty may be required depending on clinic operations.