Pharmacy Workers from CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid Prepare for Upcoming Strikes: Get Informed – Shiv Telegram Media
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Pharmacists Rallying Across the Country Against Working Conditions
Pharmacists across the nation are taking part in nonunion “wildcat strikes” to draw attention to their increasingly unfavorable working conditions. Pharmacy chains including Walgreens, CVS, and Rite Aid are potential targets for future walkouts.
Contrary to what one might expect, these strikes are not primarily focused on demanding higher pay. Instead, pharmacists are rallying for the hiring of additional staff in order to alleviate the overwhelming workloads and improve their overall working conditions.
A survey conducted in 2021 shed light on the harsh reality faced by pharmacy workers. A significant percentage of respondents revealed that they lack sufficient time or staff to safely fulfill their duties. This alarming revelation exposes the potential risks patients face due to understaffing in pharmacies nationwide.
CVS pharmacies in the Kansas City area were temporarily closed down as a result of a strike, which grabbed the attention of company executives. CVS has since announced its commitment to addressing some of the concerns raised by the striking pharmacists.
However, speaking out or participating in strikes carries a significant risk for pharmacists, as they could potentially face termination from their positions. This fear does not deter these brave professionals who are determined to fight for better working conditions and patient safety.
The demand for pharmacy services, particularly immunizations, has skyrocketed in recent years. Consequently, pharmacies have become busier, resulting in more frustrated customers. Many pharmacists argue that big pharmacy chains exacerbate the situation by buying up smaller stores, thereby exacerbating already challenging working conditions.
In addition, the three largest drugstore chains, CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid, have been shuttering their stores, further straining the remaining locations and forcing pharmacists to handle larger workloads.
In response to these deteriorating conditions, some pharmacists have chosen to leave the major pharmacy chains and seek better opportunities in community pharmacies. These smaller establishments often offer more favorable working conditions and a supportive work environment.
The nonunion strikes happening across the country are shedding light on the grievances of pharmacists who refuse to remain silent any longer. While they are fighting for immediate change within large pharmacy chains, they are also finding solace in community pharmacies that prioritize their well-being.
As pharmacists nationwide make their voices heard, only time will tell if their rallying will bring about the necessary changes and improvements to the industry.
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