Requirements For Registration With the PCNZ
The requirements set by the PCNZ are different for different candidates. It can be broadly categorized into 3 separate groups.
- Pharmacy Graduates from New Zealand and Australia: For New Zealand candidates, registration can be done directly. The education qualifications are already aligned with the healthcare standard of the country.
Australian-registered pharmacists can also work in New Zealand without any additional assessment.
- Pharmacy Graduates from the U.S, U.K., Canada, and Ireland: Pharmacists who have registered in these countries have to get their qualification verified before they can register with PCNZ.
- Pharmacy Graduates from the rest of the world: Candidates from any country other than the ones mentioned above have to take the NZ OPRA exam. This is an assessment exam.
The first two paths are easy. This blog will discuss the NZ OPRA exam, the registration process, and much more.
Who is Eligible for the New Zealand OPRA Exam?
There is a set of eligibility requirements that need to be met when you start the process of seeking pharmacist registration in New Zealand. They are as follows.
- B.Pharm or PharmD degree.
- Active registration in the home country.
If you meet these requirements, you can proceed to take the New Zealand OPRA exam.
This exam is 2.5 hours 2.5-hour-long, computer-based exam. There are 120 questions, and no minimum passing mark.
Also Read : OPRA Exam for New Zealand
Steps in Becoming a Registered Pharmacist in New Zealand
Just clearing the OPRA exam is not sufficient to set up your pharmacy practice in New Zealand. Let us understand the steps involved in the procedure in detail.
1. Initial Skill Assessment by the Pharmacy Council of New Zealand
The primary step in the whole process is to determine if you are eligible to take the pharmacist registration exam in New Zealand. Your eligibility will be checked by the Pharmacy Council of New Zealand. Your educational background, registration status, etc, will be examined during this step. Clearing the initial skill assessment will signify that you are eligible to take the OPRA exam.
2. New Zealand OPRA Exam
Clearing the OPRA exam is the next step in the process. The New Zealand OPRA exam consists of multiple-choice questions. There is no minimum passing score for the exam. It rather depends on the Rasch model to assess the candidate’s competency. This exam can be taken from your home country and will be conducted online. You can choose a testing centre closest to you.
3. New Zealand Pharmacy Legislation Course
The New Zealand Pharmacy Legislation (NZPL) course is a mandatory step to seek registration to practise in New Zealand. Completing this course is necessary to gain clarity about the professional, legal, and ethical responsibilities required for practising in New Zealand. This is a 3-month online course with ten modules. Enrolment is available only once a year.
4. Intern Pharmacist Scope of Practice Registration
The Intern Pharmacist Scope of Practice registration is required for the completion of the necessary internship period. This provides a platform for you to gain practical experience. It is conducted under the supervision of a qualified pharmacist. Through the internship program, you will hone your skills and widen your knowledge sphere. These will help you become better suited for the role of a practicing pharmacist in the real world.
5. EVOLVE Internship Program
Before becoming a full-time pharmacist, the aspirants must undergo this internship program. This is beneficial for you to get practical training and support. This program will be run by a dedicated team of pharmacists and support staff, including assignments, workshops, portfolios, and appraisals.
6. Registration with the Pharmacy Council of New Zealand
Why Should You Become a Registered Pharmacist in New Zealand?
In the past few years, New Zealand has become the destination of choice for pharmacists. And with good reasons, too.
New Zealand provides not only a warm and welcoming society but also career growth opportunities.
Listed below are a few of the many benefits of working in New Zealand as a pharmacist.
- High Salaries: New Zealand is among the top countries in terms of pharmacists’ salaries. The average salary package is around 85,000 NZD or about 44 lakh INR. This can go up to 100,000 NZD and more with experience.
- Career Opportunities: With a world-class health system, there are many career opportunities for pharmacists. You can become a retail pharmacist or a clinical pharmacist. Move from research role to management position. The opportunities are endless.
- Job Security: The number of pharmacists in NZ has been declining in the past few years. This has led to a shortage of skilled pharmacists. In such a situation, pharmacists are in high demand. The economy of the country also ensures job security.
- Employment Outlook: New Zealand has strict labor laws. This decides minimum working hours, minimum wages, leave entitlements, etc. This ensures a safe and healthy working environment.
The natural beauty and the multi-cultural society add to the charm of New Zealand.
Conclusion
If you prefer a laid-back lifestyle in a beautiful country with ample opportunities to upscale your career, New Zealand has it all. By getting registered with the Pharmacy Council of New Zealand (PCNZ), you can have a rewarding career.
If you are in search of guidance to set up your pharmacy career in New Zealand, Academically can help you with the entire process.
