Burnout Management and Resilience: Factors Affecting the Filipino Pharmacists’ Practice
Keywords:
Pharmacy practice, resilience, burnout management, Filipino pharmacists' experiences, coping strategiesAbstract
Background: Pharmacists in today's setting are even more susceptible to burnout due to professional computerization, increased workload, the complexity of medication regimens, and demands for efficient, swift patient services.
Objective: This study investigates the factors influencing resilience and burnout management among Filipino Pharmacists, with emphasis on their lived experiences across various healthcare environments.
Methods: A qualitative research design was used, with purposive sampling, and in-depth virtual interviews conducted with eight Filipino pharmacists practicing in the Philippines and internationally to learn about their experiences.
Results: The thematic analysis of the transcribed interviews identified three main themes: the pharmacists' experiences with burnout, their coping mechanisms in response to challenges, and recommendations for improving the pharmacy practice environment. Participants noted that overwhelming workloads, insufficient staffing, and workplace culture greatly affect their mental well-being. They reported that they use various ways to cope, such as seeking support from others, engaging in self-care, and using effective stress management techniques.
Conclusion: Findings suggest that resilience is not just something you are born with, but can be developed through supportive workplaces, ongoing education or training, and mentorship. External support, such as mental health services and employee wellness programs, plays a crucial role in mitigating burnout and enhancing workplace productivity. The insights from this study highlight the need for organizational improvements and effective leadership to cultivate resilience among pharmacists and help them thrive in their personal and professional lives. Ultimately, embracing a holistic approach to pharmacy practice that prioritizes resilience and burnout management can enhance the overall health and well-being of pharmacy professionals, thereby improving patient care and increasing job satisfaction.
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