SUPPORT FOR CAREGIVING RESPONSIBILITIES IN THE PHARMACY WORKFORCE

To affirm that an individual’s life circumstances can change and influence their workplace needs; further,

To foster psychologically safe environments that promote dialogue around individual workplace needs; further,

To advocate for organizational policies and resources that reduce disparities caused by caregiving responsibilities such as eldercare, lactation support, and other life circumstances; further,

To empower individuals to advocate for their own needs related to work-life integration. 

Rationale

Throughout an employee's career, work dynamics often shift in response to life changes such as caregiving and lactation responsibilities. These situations introduce unique challenges that can significantly impact an employee’s ability to balance personal and professional demands. In the pharmacy profession, organizations and leaders have a critical role in addressing these needs by providing supportive resources, ensuring benefit options are clearly communicated, and fostering an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their circumstances.

Breastfeeding and lactation support are essential aspects of employee well-being, as breastmilk offers proven health benefits for both individuals and their children. Although the PUMP Act was enacted in 2022, pharmacy workplaces may still lack adequate, clean, and private spaces for expressing breastmilk. Variability in paid parental leave policies further complicates this issue, as many breastfeeding individuals return to work while still nursing and need support to maintain their breastfeeding relationships. Employers of pharmacy personnel must consider how to best support breastfeeding employees, promoting access to resources and lactation-friendly environments.

Eldercare is becoming an increasingly critical issue, particularly as the U.S. population over the age of 65 continues to grow. Unlike childcare, eldercare is not widely supported by current benefits policies, including FMLA. According to the 2022 National Pharmacist Workforce Study, women represent a majority of the pharmacy workforce and may face career disruptions due to caregiving responsibilities. By incorporating eldercare policies and benefits, employers of pharmacy personnel can improve employee retention, reduce absenteeism, and enhance productivity.

Supporting employees with caregiving and lactation needs requires employers of pharmacy personnel to advocate for policies that reduce disparities, ensure flexible work environments, and address the well-being of the workforce.