Factors affecting pharmacy student career intentions across patient-facing and non-patient facing settings: A cross-sectional evaluation

Abstract

Background

Pharmacists are increasingly following diverse career opportunities beyond traditional patient-facing roles. This shift has contributed to workforce pressures in patient-facing settings. Improved workforce models are needed. This study aimed to inform models by understanding student career intentions, placing emphasis on differences in factors affecting career choices between those choosing patient-facing versus non-patient facing roles.

Methods

This cross-sectional study gathered data through an online survey consisting of Likert-scale and multiple-choice questions to explore career intentions and influencing factors. Responses were coded and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics (chi-squared tests and post-hoc analysis).

Results

Data were collected from 90.1 % of a university's pharmacy students. An interest in science or healthcare, along with a desire to help others, were the main factors influencing decisions to study pharmacy. Over half (56.5 %) of students planned to enter community pharmacy, followed by industry (18.4 %) and hospital pharmacy (10.6 %). Work experience played a crucial role in career decision-making, with 98.7 % considering it important. Those pursuing patient-facing roles placed greater importance on direct patient contact and impact on health and well-being. Students choosing non-patient-facing roles valued benefits, promotion, and training opportunities more highly, while placing less emphasis on use of pharmacy-specific skills.

Conclusion

Study findings provide valuable insights for employers, educators, and policymakers, helping to align workforce planning and pharmacy curricula with student expectations and career motivations. This research supports development of targeted strategies to attract and retain talent in both patient-facing and non-patient-facing roles.