Nationwide Pharmacist Shortage and Mis-filled Prescriptions
The latest information regarding pharmacies and mis-filled prescriptions is pointing to a shortage of pharmacists across the nation. The shortage is leading many to work longer hours while filling an increasing number of prescriptions as well as relying on pharmacy technicians who are not as qualified to perform the job. What is troubling is pharmacists pull in high salaries. The average income from 2006 was $93,500 according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Chain pharmacies such as Walgreens and CVS often pay higher salaries than independent pharmacies. It appears pharmacists are leaving the industry because of increased pressure to do more in less time. Recent surveys by pharmacy advocacy groups have found that there are thousands of unfilled pharmacist positions in the country, while demand for prescription drugs has increased for years. Besides the risk of errors, not having enough pharmacists can lead to shorter pharmacy business hours and longer waits for customers to have their prescriptions filled.
