CPhA national survey finds 72% of pharmacy professionals considering leaving their job or the profession entirely

The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) has released the results of its Canadian Pharmacy Mental Health and Workforce Wellness Survey and the message is clear: it’s rough out there. As part of the CPhA’s Pharmacy Workforce Wellness initiative, the national survey of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians found just one in five said their mental health—after more than two years on the front lines against COVID-19—was ‘good’ or ‘very good.’ Indeed, 92% of pharmacy professionals were found to be at risk of burnout. Close to half (48%) of those surveyed said they take abuse from patients weekly or more. Read: Strategy 101 for your pharmacy practice “Canada’s pharmacy teams have proudly taken on a huge role in our pandemic response, they’ve remained a steadfast resource for their communities and have become a leading provider of COVID-19 vaccinations and guidance,” said Danielle Paes, chief pharmacist officer for the CPhA, in a press release. “But the unrelenting demands, coupled with added administrative burdens and staffing challenges have pushed us to a tipping point.” Adding to these stressors, the pandemic has made it extremely difficult to recruit and maintain adequate pharmacy staff, the survey found. And for half (52%) of those asked that difficulty is taking a severe negative toll on their wellbeing and mental health. Many of those surveyed (72%) said the impact of work on their mental health during the pandemic has made them consider a major work change, with 40% considering leaving their current position and 32% considering quitting the pharmacy profession entirely. “Through it all, pharmacy teams in all settings have remained dedicated to supporting Canada’s healthcare system, but it’s clear we need more support and resources as we continue to be there for our patients,” added Paes. “The need to address the health care crisis we are currently facing and assist our health workers across the board has never been more evident.

CPhA national survey finds 72% of pharmacy professionals considering leaving their job or the profession entirely

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