Pharmacists rally at metro hospitals, warning of deepening staffing shortages
Pharmacists gathered outside two metro hospitals on Wednesday, raising their voices over what they describe as a rapidly worsening staffing crisis in the province’s health-care system.
According to those on the front lines, vacancy rates for pharmacist positions are steadily climbing, with rural and remote areas being hit the hardest. In some communities, limited staffing has already led to increased workloads, and concerns about continuity of care for patients.
In a statement from the Department of Health and Community Services they say government values the essential role that pharmacy professionals play in Newfoundland and Labrador’s health care system and recognizes that clinical pharmacists are working in challenging environments with demanding workloads. Department officials were in touch with the AAHP last week to discuss their concerns.
Officials say they are currently reviewing the best way to address these challenges and to ensure the continued sustainability of pharmacy services within the public health system.
In the last 12 months of available data, 12 pharmacists were hired within the public health system, with most of these hires occurring in 2025.