Pharmacists said that in many cases the physical environment of their pharmacy made it difficult to bring the full scope of their knowledge and skills to their practice.

A sample of what pharmacists said:
The pharmacy layout encourages interruptions. We need time to think and to be able to do research if needed. Interruptions lead to errors.

We need a work environment that allows us the time to spend with patients in a confidential environment without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Unfortunately this isn’t always the case.

Not all work environments are conducive to expanded scope, and not all employers make it a priority to change things.

What the NSCP will do:
Direction 2 in the NSCP’s strategic plan is to Engage in Practice Environment Concerns.

The following two major initiatives under this direction will help address the barrier of pharmacists’ work environments:
1. Initiate continuing dialogue between the NSCP and pharmacy owners on workplace issues.
2. Establish minimum workplace requirements for a community pharmacy to provide safe and effective care.