Factors contributing to pharmacists leaving employment in general practice in Australia: an exploratory study

Abstract

Objective: To identify perceived factors contributing to pharmacists leaving employment in general practice.

Methods: Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with pharmacists who had left employment in general practice within 12 months of commencing (5 pharmacists out of 14 recruited into these roles) in Canberra, Australia. Thematic analysis was undertaken.

Key findings: The main specific reasons cited for leaving were lack of utilisation and part-time hours, while the over-arching themes identified were: challenges of the new role, poor role definition, professional relationships and job satisfaction.

Conclusions: In this cohort of newly appointed general practice pharmacists, employment turnover was relatively high. The interview findings indicated a need for strategies, including having clear role descriptions that are understood by all members of the practice team, so that pharmacists with appropriate skillsets can be supported and retained in the general practice setting.

Keywords: clinical pharmacy; interprofessional issues; job satisfaction; primary care; workforce.