Contemporary pharmacist practice patterns

Richard P D'Elia, Purdue University

Abstract

This study's purpose was to: (a) Describe male/female pharmacist practice patterns; (b) Provide an accurate determination of male/female Full-Time Equivalency (FTE); (c) Identify the factors which best explain male/female differences in FTE; and (d) Identify male/female pharmacist career pattern differences. A conceptual model was developed hypothesizing the impact of significant life events (e.g., marriage, children) upon FTE. A random sample of 2,000 pharmacists was surveyed by mail. From a net useable response rate of 64.49%, 522 males (45.5%) and 627 females (54.6%) were included in the final analysis. Males were older than females (46.23 versus 35.82 years). A larger percentage of males (66.0%) were salaried compared to females (49.1%). Male mean hourly wage was $22.21 (SD $ pm$ \$3.47) versus $21.63 (SD $ pm$ \$3.25) for females. Female differential work force participation has caused much concern. A majority of females (51.7%) had at least one break in active practice versus 25.2% of the males. The most females (45.7%) worked 31-40 hours per week category and 15.1% worked 20 or less hours per week. About 52% of males worked over 41 hours compared to 30.8% of females. Average workweek was 44.8 hours for males and 38.9 hours for females. A proposed gender-free FTE definition based on a 40 hour workweek yielded a male FTE of 112.1% and 97.2% for females. Comparing female hours worked to males (historical method) yields 86.7%, showing a closing of the female FTE gap (54.8% in 1971 and 71.5% in 1980). Factors negatively affecting male FTE were years in practice and owner or employee status (F = 30.274, p $\le$ 0.001). These factors explained 13% of the variance in FTE (R$\sp2$ = 0.1303). For females the negative factors were spouse income percent contribution to joint income, presence of children and employee status. These variables explained 33% of the variance encountered (R$\sp2$ = 0.3275). Significant gender-based differences were found in full-time equivalency, practice site, functional activity in the practice site and the impact of children. Hourly wage differences were insignificant. Compared to previous studies, the differences in FTE narrowed. Practice pattern differences appear, in part, to be the result of childbearing and family responsibilities falling on the female. A gender-free definition of FTE was recommended for adoption based on a standard 40 hour workweek.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Mason, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Pharmaceuticals

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