Understanding the Factors Influencing the Rural Pharmacy Workforce: Enablers and Barriers for Employers and Employees - A Critical Literature Review (2002-2022) | [Archives of Pharmacy Practice • 2025]

Author(s):

1. Delyse Leadbeatter: University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3053, Australia.

2. Daniel Yao: University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3053, Australia.

Abstract:

The unequal distribution of pharmacists across regional and rural areas in Australia mirrors trends seen in other health professions. This narrative review sought to explore the factors that facilitate or hinder recruitment and retention of pharmacy staff, with a particular focus on the perspectives of potential employers. A systematic search was conducted for peer-reviewed, English-language studies published between 2002 and 2022. Search terms included 'rural', 'remote', 'pharmacy', 'pharmacist', 'employer', 'manager', 'workforce', and 'practice'. Databases searched included MEDLINE/EBSCOhost, PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and DOAJ, with pharmacy-specific filters applied. Identified themes were extracted, tabulated, and analyzed. Numerous themes emerged, with most studies emphasizing the perspectives of employees rather than those of employers. Among the 12 studies reviewed, the most frequently reported factors were 'rural background or origin/initial training', 'professional collaboration with other health professionals', and 'lifestyle considerations, including housing affordability and living costs'. Some previously strong predictors, such as 'rural origin', appeared less consistently. Evidence indicates that positive experiences during rural placements and early employment after graduation can have a meaningful impact on workforce retention. Both employees and employers consistently valued a few factors. Overall, the literature remains heavily weighted toward employee perspectives, with limited insight into employer experiences. Further primary research is warranted to focus on employer challenges and the incentives they use to attract pharmacists to rural and regional areas.

Page(s): 29-34

DOI: 10.51847/30MZ8mIvkt

Published: Journal: Archives of Pharmacy Practice, Volume: 16, Issue: 3, Year: 2025

Keywords:

Rural , Regional , Pharmacy , Employee , workforce , Employer

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