CVS Health is facing walkouts by pharmacists in protest of working conditions and the closure of multiple drugstores in and around Kansas City, Missouri. These protests have led to the unexpected shutdown of a dozen locations on September 21 and 22, with nearly two dozen pharmacists participating in the demonstrations across the Kansas City metropolitan area.
Reports and advocates have highlighted the ongoing issues faced by pharmacy workers, which have only worsened during the pandemic. The increased demand for services such as COVID vaccinations and testing has been met with staff cuts and shortened hours, exacerbating the challenges faced by pharmacists. Lannie Duong, a clinical pharmacist and advocate for pharmacy workers, emphasized the need for improved working conditions in a statement.
CVS has stated that the walkouts have not impacted its business operations, insisting that they are providing additional resources to support stores that may be reaching their capacity. However, the company’s Chief Pharmacy Officer, Prem Shah, reneged on an agreement to issue a public apology to employees and customers during a meeting with the protesting pharmacists.
Staff shortages
The frustrations voiced by pharmacists include a backlog of prescriptions and insufficient staff to handle tasks such as answering phone calls and administering vaccinations. Chris Adkins, an advocate and pharmacist, explained that the current staffing situation at CVS and other pharmacy chains often leads to disruptions in workflow, resulting in reduced efficiency. Previously, technicians and clerks would assist with these tasks to ensure smooth operations.
The challenges faced by pharmacists have been ongoing and have only worsened in recent years, leading to concerns about patient safety. According to a survey conducted by the Kansas Board of Pharmacy, more than half of pharmacists in Kansas reported not having enough time to safely and effectively perform their job. Insufficient staff and employer-imposed quotas were cited as significant factors contributing to these issues.
The Kansas Pharmacists Association has expressed support for pharmacists and pharmacy personnel protesting unsafe working conditions that jeopardize patient health. They argue that the current system places undue emphasis on prescription volume rather than the quality of healthcare. Similarly, the California Pharmacists Association stands in solidarity with pharmacists across the nation who are bravely advocating for improved working conditions to protect patient safety.
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