Job satisfaction in hospital pharmacists

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Job satisfaction among hospital pharmacists is important for several reasons. First, job dissatisfaction may contribute to increased job turnover.1 With the current pharmacist shortage in many parts of the country and the time and expense necessary to fill vacant positions, turnover can result in significant financial loss to a hospital. Second, pharmacists who are dissatisfied with their jobs may have a reduced quality of life, with consequent negative effects on mental, emotional, and physical health.2 Finally, higher job satisfaction may result in increased productivity, a higher quality of work, and ultimately, more satisfied patients. Job satisfaction of hospital pharmacists has been studied.3,4 Answers to facet-free questions measuring overall job and career satisfaction and to facet-specific questions related to discrete duties of a hospital pharmacist have been reported. The usual facet-specific aspects measured have been those that can be changed or modified to increase job satisfaction. One report indicated that mean job satisfaction increased as the time spent performing clinical duties increased.5 Another report indicated that there was a positive relationship between job satisfaction and perceived utilization of skills and adequate staffing.6 A recent white paper from the American College of Clinical Pharmacy identified work–life balance and favorable work schedules as important motivators for clinical pharmacists.7 An ASHP task force reported that efforts to address the ongoing changes in pharmacy demographics will help position the profession to optimize professional satisfaction.8