Burnout, staffing shortages, medication errors: How can Michigan pharmacy address these and other core issues affecting pharmacy practice?
This report addresses key causes and conditions of workplace issues in Michigan pharmacy, including burnout, staffing shortages and medication errors, while providing a framework for moving forward with a list of 10 key recommendations to help improve patient care and working conditions for pharmacy professionals.
The Pharmacy Workplace Environment Task Force was created by the Michigan Pharmacists Association (MPA) Executive Board in 2021 to assess workplace environment practices and identify where MPA can help facilitate change. Led by Chair Rony Foumia, the Task Force identified barriers that lead to burnout and errors, along with methods to decrease preventable errors influenced by the workplace environment, workflow or operational systems. Furthermore, the Task Force has sought to raise awareness of burnout of pharmacy professionals and challenges faced throughout pharmacy practice.
The Task Force was comprised of a diverse group of individuals with years of experience in many aspects of pharmacy practice. Each member utilized real-life experiences and various resources to collectively gather insight into the current state of pharmacy practice in Michigan. The Task Force focused on being concise and impactful with solution-based recommendations that may be implemented quickly, as well as long-term resolutions. The Task Force gathered information to support their recommendations and identify the root causes of increased stress and frustrations impacting pharmacist and pharmacy technician well-being. The Task Force further extended their work to evaluate how the SARS-CoV-2, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected and continues to impact pharmacy workplace environments.
The Task Force will continue its work as an official and permanent MPA committee going forward to build on this initial groundwork laid by the Task Force and to help implement and further develop its recommendations and research. Download and review the 15-page report below.