Insider’s perspective
Respondents listed the following critical factors as being the most important to them. Please note that
a factor can rank highly based on wanting the factor or wanting to avoid the factor. As an example, some
may rank repetitive activities as a top factor as this is something that they want or look to avoid in
their practice. The factors listed below are based on the number of respondents who indicated these
would be the top five factors they would like to have in a role. Note that there are 25 total critical
factors from which to select.
Top 5 – first tier
Of interest is the fact that there are two factors that were rated the same across the group.
- Leisure and family time (10.8%)
- Repetitive versus variable work (9.2%)
- Ongoing coworker/client relationships (7.7%)
- Collaborating with health professionals (6.2%)
- Community impact (6.2%)
In addition to the top five factors, the second tier of critical factors are listed below. Note that
three of the factors; ongoing coworker/client relationships, collaborating with health professionals,
and repetitive versus variable work are listed in both areas. This can be interpreted to mean that, for
some, these factors are in their top five list while, for others, they are a close second. The list
below had numerous factors with the same percentage of respondents indicating that they were a
second-tier factor.
Top 5 – second tier
- Compensation (7.7%)
- Ongoing coworker/client relationships (7.7%)
- Problem solving, organizing/management/supervision of people, application of knowledge (e.g.,
clinical, or scientific), collaborating with health professionals, and leadership development (all
6.2%)
One respondent from Arizona commented on the factor of ongoing coworker/client relationships, “(This is)
critical because sometimes you spend more time with these people than your own family.” Another
respondent from New York added, “(This is) very important to the flow of a successful pharmacy.”
There are many rewarding and challenging experiences in being a staff pharmacist in an independent
community setting. Fifty-five percent of the respondents indicated that patient care was a rewarding
part of the role. One respondent from Idaho stated, “The most rewarding experiences are those when the
patient comes back to me days later and says, ‘You were right, I'm glad I went to the ER because it was
broken and that brace wouldn't have done anything’ or ‘You were right, I called my doctor and they told
me that I was supposed to stop that medication but they forgot to tell me that at the appointment.’ "
Another respondent from Minnesota added, “Taking care of multiple generations of a family and the
gratitude shown. Getting paid for clinical skills.”
One the other side, a respondent from Georgia provided the following challenging areas, “…daily
struggles with insurance, prior authorizations, high copays, formulary restrictions.” Another from
Arizona supported the first statement when they added, “Insurance is the most challenging.”
Respondents were asked to select an additional factor from the full list that they consider to be the
most important. The following were listed by the group: pressure/stress: 35.9%; and work schedule, and
multiple-task handling both at 14.6%.
Respondents had a variety of responses that they provided as highlights of their career and where they
see the future of the role. Several of the responses are listed below.
- "Actually, helping patients and working with pharmacy students in preceptorship."
- "Being recognized by the association for a lifetime achievement award for dedication to the
profession."
- "Very bright and a lot of change. The need for educated pharmacists who work and communicate well is
huge."
- "For me personally, I see a continuing trust that is built by patients towards me as I continue to
earn their respect through compassionate understanding for their specific situation and concerns as
I provide solutions, assistance, and insight into these concerns and situations."
- "Owning three stores with 28 employees that care."
Critical factors ratings
Opportunities for advancement
[To what degree does your work allow for advancement?]
Respondents rated the factor mid-range with a 5.44. Opportunities do exist based on how you look at
advancement—the pharmacist individual role and/or types of clinical services provided.
A respondent from Kansas provided the following information, “Opportunity for advancement depends on the
person, if you are willing to expand your knowledge as you go. Obtain certificates such as medication
therapy management (MTM) services, immunizations, and diabetes care. Many employers are willing to train
the right person, rather than hire someone with experience that does not fit well with the team or
workplace.” Another from Tennessee added, “Community pharmacists can advance to pharmacist in charge
(PIC), clinical services director, co-owner, full-owner, or multi-store owner.”
Another independent staff pharmacist from Georgia stated, “Additional certifications could be sought to
further advance and specialize depending on the needs of your community or pharmacy.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = Little advancement opportunities 10 = Great opportunities for advancement
Leadership development/professional involvement
[To what extent does your work allow for
the development of leadership skills and professional involvement in the pharmacy
profession?]
Respondents leaned toward the opportunities side of the factor with a rating of 6.60.
A respondent from Minnesota enjoyed the opportunity of leadership through, “[m]embership and involvement
in community, state, and national org encouraged and time provided.” Another pharmacist from California
looked at this a little differently and stated, “If you’re the only pharmacist on duty you are the
leader of your team, and they will look to your guidance and direction.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = Little development of leadership skills and professional
involvement 10 = Great opportunities for leadership development
and professional involvement
Community impact
[How much impact does your work have in terms of serving the community?]
Respondents indicated that community impact is the highest rated critical factor of 8.52. Their
involvement has impact on patients and the communities they serve.
One respondent from Missouri provided the following, “Independent pharmacies in rural areas greatly
impact the community because relationships with the medical providers and nurses are often easier to
build and maintain because of the ease of communication, as well [as] participating in local
activities/boards/etc. with them.” Pharmacists are often the first person in the smaller community that
a patient will seek out for advice. Another pharmacist from Nebraska stated, “We are a community health
center pharmacy serving the underserved. We have several programs to help those needing assistance.”
Another respondent from Kansas stated, “I enjoy working with the native populations to help them
understand their disease states and how their lifestyle choices can affect their health.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = Little impact 10 = High level of
impact
Autonomy
[To what extent does your work allow for autonomy in decision making?]
Respondents feel that they lean toward having a high level of autonomy with a rating of 6.93.
A respondent from Washington stated, “Independent community pharmacy offers a great amount of autonomy.”
Another from California provided the following, “Depends on your pharmacist in charge (PIC). My boss
lets me make decisions and does not micromanage.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = Very little low autonomy 10 = High
level of autonomy
Focus
[To what extent does your work allow you to be focused on the future versus a focus
only on immediate tasks?]
Respondents indicated that they are mid-range at 5.74 in leveraging both immediate tasks and focusing on
the future.
A staff pharmacist in Kentucky stated, “The work of today is important but where are we going? EVOLUTION
is my new word for new students, colleagues, and patients.” A respondent from California added, “When
current medications might not be working successfully, an alternative may be proposed by the pharmacist
who keeps up to date.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = Immediate tasks only 10 = Tasks
focused on the future
Prestige
[To what extent does your work provide professional prestige?]
Respondents are mid-range with a rating of 6.66 regarding prestige.
One respondent from Kansas stated, “As a pharmacist in a rural community, I feel that I am as respected
as much [as] a physician by patients and community members.” Another pharmacist from New York added, “My
personal prestige comes from satisfaction that my work has impacted my patients positively.”
A respondent from California had a unique perspective when they indicated that, “Part of how you are
treated is your acceptance of and expectation of said treatment. Do not be afraid to stand up for
yourself, your pharmacy technicians, and your patients.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = Provides low prestige 10 =
Provides high prestige
Creating value/positive outcomes
[To what extent does your work allow for personal
fulfillment through the creation of value and positive outcomes?]
Respondents were mid-range with a rating of 7.07 for this critical factor.
A respondent from California looked at this factor broadly when they stated, “Both patients and other
healthcare providers show their appreciation for pharmacist input in the patient medication therapy.” A
different pharmacist also from California added, “You are able to affect so many peoples’ lives through
patient education. It is the little things that patients thank you for and are grateful for what you do
for them.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = Little extent 10 = High
extent
Patient relationships
[To what degree do you have ongoing or long-term relationships with
patients?]
Respondents indicated that they lean toward long-term patient relationships with a 7.58 rating.
One respondent from Kansas summed this up nicely when they stated, “Continuity of care is something I
value and enjoy.” Another respondent from Kentucky added, “Independent Pharmacy equals relationships
through generations.”
A California staff pharmacist indicated, “Patient relationships are important from the beginning. Making
a foundation for your pharmacy because they will come back and love to see you every time.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = No ongoing/ long-term relationships 10 = All are long-term relationships
Coworker/client relationships
[To what degree do you have ongoing or long-term
relationships with coworkers or clients?]
Respondents rated this factor as the second highest with a score of 8.00. Many respondents commented on
the positive long-term relationships that they have developed with coworkers and clients.
A pharmacist from Washington summed it up this way, “I have many wonderful colleagues in my past and
present. I communicate frequently with many.” Another from Tennessee added, “Lifelong relationships are
one of the herald characteristics of independent community practice.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = No ongoing/ long-term relationships 10 = All are long-term relationships
Writing/conducting research
[How often do you engage in writing and/or conducting
research?]
This is the lowest rated factor at 0.89. Most of the respondents indicated that they do little research
or writing.
A respondent from California stated, “Not much writing, not original research, but lots of research into
treatments and new drugs to relay information to patients and clients!” Another respondent from
Tennessee added, “I do write grants and white papers but rarely involved in peer-reviewed scholarship.”
A Minnesota pharmacist wrote, “We have done two studies in house in 20 years. Can do more if individual
willing to find funds and set up.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = None of my time 10 = All my
time
Generating new ideas
[To what degree does your work involve generating new ideas?]
Respondents are mid-range in the amount of innovative thinking that they use with a rating of 5.00.
One respondent from Kansas provided the following, “As a compounding pharmacist, I consider myself a
problem solver. As a staff pharmacist, I am always looking for new ways to communicate/educate/connect
with my patients for the betterment of their health.” A respondent from Minnesota added, “Progressive
thinking encouraged.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = Little innovative thinking 10 =
High degree of innovative thinking
Supervision/management
[To what extent do you spend your time organizing, managing, or
supervising others and/or business operations?]
Supervision of others was rated mid-range with a score of 6.36.
A respondent from Tennessee stated that, “Most of my time is spent overseeing others.” Another from
Pennsylvania added, “Sometimes you have to step up and educate the technicians about their work.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = None of my time 10 = All my
time
Patient interaction
[How much time do you spend interacting with
patients?]
Respondents indicated that they spend some of their time interacting with patients with a rating of
6.44.
One respondent from Kentucky stated that they do this, “As much, on both topics, as possible! I cannot
do it enough!”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = None of my time 10 = All my
time
Public interaction
[How much time do you spend interacting with the
public?]
Respondents looked at public interaction as being slightly lower than that of patients with a rating of
5.04.
One respondent from California felt that they accomplish this by, “Attending community events is a
valuable time spent with patients.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = None of my time 10 = All my
time
Collaboration
[How often do you work or collaborate with other health professionals or
educate other professionals in your work?]
Respondents were mid-range with a rating of 6.20 for the critical factor collaboration.
A respondent from New York was somewhat concerned when they stated that, “There should be a greater
exchange of patient information between health care professionals for the sake of the patient.” Another
from Washington added, “Collaboration is necessary when staffing and contacting provider offices.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = None of my time 10 = All my
time
Family/leisure time
[How much free time do you have for leisure and family activities in
your work?]
Most respondents indicated that they do have some time for family and leisure activities with a rating
of 5.83.
A respondent from California stated, “After work weekends and evenings are sufficient time off for
relaxation.” A different response was provided by a pharmacist from New York who indicated, “Commuting
to (and from) work is the main detractor from leisure and family time.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = Little free time 10 = Plenty of
time for family and leisure activities
Impact on well-being
[To what degree do you impact the well-being of individuals?]
Respondents were in the upper mid-range regarding their impact on well-being with a rating of 7.91.
One respondent from Tennessee indicated that, “I feel like my work directly impacts the wellbeing of
others.” Another from Kentucky added, “I am trusted, dependable, and a valuable part of every one of my
patients' lives and family!”
A California pharmacist was very positive about the impact when they stated, “When the patient has the
knowledge of what their medications are being diagnosed for plus how to take them their confidence level
is overwhelming.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = Low degree 10 = High degree
Problem solving
[To what degree do you solve problems with tried-and-true alternatives
versus untested alternatives in your work?]
Respondents rated problem solving at the mid-range 5.18.
A respondent from California provided a detailed comment, “Alternatives to current medication upon
failure to provide necessary results, one starts with tried and true. In the event a patient once in a
while fails these alternatives a discussion with their provider to determine whether another medication
might be suitable will ensue.” Another from Tennessee added, “Community pharmacy is like the ‘ER,’ we
are faced with some new problems each day, as well as some we have seen before. But each patient
represents a unique challenge and solution.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = Tried and true 10 = Untested
alternatives
Expertise
[How general or specialized is the expertise required in your work?]
Respondents were again mid-range in their response to the factor of expertise with a rating of 5.18.
However, the definition of generalized versus specialized is viewed differently by many.
Respondents differ on how they look at expertise. One respondent from California stated, “As a pharmacy
school graduate who specialized in asthma and geriatrics, I am quite helpful in these cases.” Another
from Tennessee added a detailed response regarding the practice of independent pharmacy in this area,
“It is a misconception that community pharmacy is a ‘general’ category of pharmacy practice. While
drug/disease knowledge may be general, the amount of knowledge and expertise required to understand drug
pricing, purchasing, business ownership, etc., is far more advanced than what I saw when practicing as
an ambulatory care pharmacist in my previous role. To be successful in community, you have to be an
expert.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = Generalized 10 =
Specialized
Repetition
[To what degree is your work composed of activities and tasks that are highly
repetitive versus highly variable?]
Repetition is in every role that a pharmacist performs, the difference is how one looks at repetition as
each patient is different and each situation is different. Overall, respondents lean toward the
repetitive side of the factor with a rating of 4.38.
One respondent from Washington stated, “Dispensing is a repetitive function in itself. What makes it
difficult is to add in profile review, interaction check, and appropriateness of therapy.” Another from
California added, “The prescription dictates one’s duties but the taking of multiple medications may
prove insightful due to patient disease states plus drug interactions.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = Highly repetitive 10 = Highly
variable
Applying scientific knowledge
[How much of your time is spent applying scientific
knowledge in your work?]
Independent staff pharmacists indicated that they are mid-range in application of scientific knowledge
with a rating of 5.22.
No specific comments were provided about this factor.
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = No application 10 = High level of
application all the time
Applying clinical knowledge
[How much of your time is spent applying clinical
knowledge in your work?]
Compared to the above factor, the application of clinical knowledge is higher than that of scientific
knowledge with a rating of 6.44.
One respondent put this succinctly, “A Doctorate in Pharmacy degree which gives one both clinical plus
scientific knowledge.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = No application 10 = High level of
application all the time
Parental leave
[To what extent does your work setting offer parental leave
opportunities?]
Many of the respondents to this factor indicated that they do not leverage parental leave which may be
why the factor is rated at 4.78.
One respondent from Nebraska put it simply–they get, “Twelve weeks.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = Limited opportunities 10 =
Unlimited opportunities
Compensation
[To what degree do you feel compensated for your responsibilities in your
work?]
Many respondents are concerned about the area of compensation when they rate this at 6.47. In general,
the responses were around the lower reimbursements which impacted compensation.
One respondent from New York stated, “Compensation is not as great as other areas of pharmacy, but
quality of work and quality of life are better.” A respondent from Missouri was blunt when they added,
“Reimbursements are reducing compensation.” This was supported by another pharmacist from New Jersey,
“(There is) no money left for any extra compensation.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = Not well compensated 10 = Well
compensated
Benefit package
[How comprehensive is the employee benefit package offered in your work
setting?]
Respondents indicated that they feel the benefit package is not as comprehensive as it could be with a
rating of 4.84.
A pharmacist from Colorado stated, “Insurance is costly with a small store.” Another from California
added that they receive, “Salary plus healthcare (is reserved) for full time staff.”
0 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10
0 = Not comprehensive 10 = Very
Comprehensive
Advice for student pharmacists
Practitioners’ advice to student pharmacists varied across many areas–all which looked at ways to gain
additional information in this area as well as looking forward to the future. Below is a partial list of
advice.
- "No matter what ‘role’ you take, remember that you are a health care provider and that whatever you
do, you are doing for another person that needs your help."
- "I worry for the future of independent community pharmacy."
- "For me personally, I see a continuing trust that is built by patients towards me as I continue to
earn their respect through compassionate understanding for their specific situation and concerns as
I provide solutions, assistance, and insight into these concerns and situations."
- "Number one profession to love."
- "Independent community pharmacists play a vital role in accessibility and quality health care,
especially in small communities, but poor insurance reimbursements, etc. are driving a lot of
independents out of business."
- "Learn business skills and how to motivate others."
- "Unlimited opportunities."
Professional organizations
Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP)
675 North Washington Street, Suite 220, Alexandria, VA 22314
(703) 684-2600 | www.amcp.org
Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE)
190 South LaSalle Street, Suite 3000, Chicago, IL 60603-3446
(312) 664-3575 | www.acpe-accredit.org
American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP)
1400 Crystal Drive, Suite 300, Arlington, VA 22202
(703) 739-2330 | www.aacp.org
American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS)
Avedisian Hall, 7 Greenhouse Road, Kingston, RI 02881
(703) 556-0650 | www.aaps.org
American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists (AAPP)
8055 O Street, Suite S113, Lincoln, NE 68510
(402) 476-1677 | www.aapp.org
American College of Apothecaries (ACA)
2830 Summer Oaks Drive, Bartlett, TN 38134
(901) 383-8119 | www.acainfo.org
American College of Clinical Pharmacy (ACCP)
13000 West 87th Street Parkway, Lenexa, KS 66215-4530
(913) 492-3311 | www.accp.com
American Foundation for Pharmaceutical Education (AFPE)
11325 Random Hills Road, Suite 360A-105, Fairfax, VA 22030
(571) 404-0471 | www.afpenet.org
American Pharmacists Association (APhA)
2215 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20037
(202) 628-4410 | www.pharmacist.com
American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP)
1240 North Pitt Street, Suite 300, Alexandria, VA 22314
(703) 739-1300 | www.ascp.com
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP)
4500 East-West Highway, Suite 900, Bethesda, MD 20814
(866) 279-0681 | www.ashp.org
Board of Pharmacy Specialties (BPS)
2215 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20037
(202) 946-5026 | www.bpsweb.org
Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA)
555 East Wells Street, Suite 1100, Milwaukee, WI 53202
(877) 467-2791 | www.hoparx.org
National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations (NASPA)
2530 Professional Road, North Chesterfield, VA 23235
(804) 285-4431 | www.naspa.us
National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP)
1600 Feehanville Drive, Mount Prospect, IL 60056
(847) 391-4406 | www.nabp.pharmacy
National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS)
1776 Wilson Blvd, Suite 200, Arlington, VA 22209
(703) 549-3001 | www.nacds.org
National Association of Specialty Pharmacy (NASP)
300 New Jersey Ave, NW, #900, Washington, DC 20001
(703) 842.0122 | www.naspnet.org
National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA)
100 Daingerfield Road, Alexandria, VA 22314
(703) 683-8200 | www.ncpa.org
National Pharmaceutical Association (NPhA)
10810 North Tatum Boulevard, Suite 102-965, Phoenix, AZ 85028
(480) 405-9291 | www.nationalpharmaceuticalassociation.org
Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA)
670 Maine Avenue, SW, Suite 1000, Washington, DC 20024
(202) 835-3400 | www.phrma.org