The pharmacist shortage in Australia is a pressing issue, with approximately 74% of pharmacies experiencing difficulties in recruiting and retaining staff, and around 18% of pharmacy employers identifying recruitment as their biggest challenge.
Rural and regional pharmacies are particularly affected, struggling to meet community needs due to workforce shortages.
To address these challenges, pharmacy owners and managers can implement several strategies to improve recruitment, retention, and workplace culture:
Competitive Remuneration and Benefits: Offering salaries above the award rates can make positions more attractive. For instance, pharmacists in regional and rural areas often receive higher remuneration compared to their metropolitan counterparts.
Professional Development Opportunities: Providing access to ongoing education and career advancement pathways can enhance job satisfaction. The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) emphasises the importance of expanding pharmacist scope of practice to counteract future primary healthcare workforce challenges.
Positive Workplace Culture: Fostering a supportive and inclusive environment encourages staff retention. Implementing quality improvement programs, such as the Professional Practice Standards Quality Improvement and Self-Assessment Implementation Program, can help pharmacies maintain high standards and a positive work atmosphere.
Flexible Work Arrangements: Offering part-time or flexible hours can attract a broader range of candidates, including those balancing other commitments. However, it's important to note that the proportion of part-time to full-time pharmacists in community pharmacy is significantly unbalanced compared to other industries, which may impact service delivery.
Utilising Recruitment Services: Partnering with specialised recruitment agencies like Raven’s Recruitment can streamline the hiring process and connect pharmacies with qualified candidates who align with their workplace culture and values.
By implementing these strategies, pharmacy owners and managers can create a more attractive and supportive work environment, ultimately improving recruitment and retention rates.
Raven’s Recruitment is dedicated to assisting Australian community pharmacists in finding fulfilling pharmacy positions that align with their career goals and values.
What steps will you take to enhance your pharmacy's workplace culture and attract top talent?
