Some Walgreens pharmacy staff walked off the job this week due to concerns about working conditions. The exact scale of the protest is uncertain, with organizers estimating that over 300 Walgreens locations were affected, while the company spokesperson stated that only a few pharmacies experienced disruptions.
A Walgreens pharmacy manager who helped organize the walkouts highlighted issues such as being short-staffed and overworked, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. These conditions have led to upset customers, medication errors, vaccination errors, and needle sticks.
The employees who walked out are organizing online as many Walgreens workers are not unionized. They have three main requests for the company: improved transparency about shifting hours and schedules, dedicated training hours for new team members, and adjusted tasks and expectations based on staffing levels at each location.
If Walgreens does not address the concerns raised by the pharmacy staff, further walkouts may occur at the end of the month. The company’s spokesperson stated that they are listening to the employees’ concerns and are committed to ensuring support and resources for their pharmacy team.
Workload challenges are prevalent in drugstores across the country as they head into the busy fall season. Last month, CVS locations in the Kansas City area also experienced walkouts, leading the company to promise increased hiring.
While concerns about working conditions have been building for years, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these issues. Additional demands such as testing and vaccination have been placed on pharmacy staff without adequate support.
Source: The Associated Press
Perspective:
It is essential for companies to prioritize the well-being of their employees, especially in high-stress working environments like pharmacies. The concerns raised by Walgreens pharmacy staff reflect a larger issue within the industry, where heavy workloads and insufficient support have become commonplace. As customers, it is crucial to advocate for fair working conditions that prioritize patient safety and the welfare of pharmacy employees. By supporting organizations that work towards improving working conditions, we can contribute to a healthier and more sustainable healthcare system.
