Title: Nonunion “Wildcat Strikes” Shake Up Pharmacy Industry, Demand Better Working Conditions
In a surprising turn of events, nonunion “wildcat strikes” are causing upheaval in the pharmacy industry as pharmacists across the country walk off the job and refuse to work. These strikes, which are not about pay but rather about ensuring safe working conditions, have become a rallying cry for pharmacy workers who are demanding better working conditions and more staff to handle their overwhelming workloads.
Larger strikes targeting major chains such as Walgreens, CVS, and Rite Aid are expected to take place in late October and early November, underscoring the growing dissatisfaction among pharmacists. The strikes have gained traction on social media, where the hashtag “#PizzaIsNotWorking” was created to criticize pharmacy chains’ response to staff complaints.
A recent survey conducted among pharmacy workers found alarming results. As many as 74% of respondents admitted to not having enough time to safely perform nonclinical tasks, while 75% claimed there were not enough staff members to safely perform clinical work. These findings highlight the urgent need for improvement in working conditions within the industry.
Evidence of the impact of these strikes has already been seen. CVS pharmacies in the Kansas City area were forced to shut down after a strike, prompting the company to pledge addressing some of the concerns raised. However, pharmacists face risks when organizing or striking, as they can be fired by their employers, requiring them to carefully navigate their actions.
One of the key factors driving the unrest among pharmacists is the increased workload brought on by pharmacies offering more services to patients. As a result, frustration among customers has escalated. Internal complaints from pharmacists about staffing and other issues have been ongoing for years, but the strikes serve as a culmination of these persistent frustrations in the industry.
Staffing problems and cutbacks have resulted in a decrease in patient care and an increase in workloads for experienced technicians, which compromises the quality of service provided. Many pharmacists feel that their working conditions have deteriorated due to consolidation and closures, prompting them to target the biggest drugstore chains for their protests.
Pharmacists play a crucial role as the last line of defense for patients receiving medication, making it essential to address their concerns and ensure safe working environments. Some pharmacists have found refuge in community pharmacies that offer better working conditions, illustrating the urgency for change within the industry.
As the strikes continue to gain momentum, it remains to be seen whether pharmacy chains will be willing to engage in meaningful discussions to improve the working conditions and ultimately enhance patient care within the industry.
