Alternative Work Schedules for Female Pharmacists

The impact of the increased proportion of women in pharmacy is discussed, and two leadership positions for which part-time work schedules were implemented are described. Issues associated with the increased representation of women include pharmacist shortages, loss of future leaders, decreased staff productivity related to inadequate day-care services, and a reduced earning potential of pharmacists. Many of these problems can be addressed by altering benefit packages and work schedules to enable employees to raise children while continuing to work. Specific strategies include legislation, day-care programs, flex time and flex scheduling, telecommuting, and the creation of alternative work schedules or permanent part-time positions. At the University of Michigan, a part-time position that combines faculty and clinical responsibilities has been in place since 1988. At The Washington Hospital Center, one of the three assistant director of pharmacy positions is part-time. The women in both positions have met or exceeded job performance requirements while raising a family. Issues raised by the increasing number of female pharmacists must be addressed by the profession. Part-time work schedules are one strategy for enabling female pharmacists to meet both their family and career responsibilities.