Pharmacy Staffing Trend Predictions for 2025
The pharmacy profession is evolving rapidly, driven by advancements in technology, changing healthcare delivery models, and changing patient needs. In 2025, several staffing trends are likely to reshape the field, impacting the roles, responsibilities, and demand for pharmacy professionals.
Increased Demand for Specialized Roles
The growing complexity of healthcare is driving the need for advanced training and specialized pharmacy roles. Pharmacists with expertise in oncology, geriatrics, pharmacogenomics, and chronic disease management are in high demand.
Pharmacists are also moving into roles as medication informatics specialists, using data analysis and other digital informatics programs to improve the safety and efficiency of medication administration.
As pharmacies adopt robotics and automation to enhance efficiency, some pharmacists are specializing in overseeing and managing these systems.
Pharmacists trained in AI technologies help implement AI tools, analyzing vast datasets and interpreting machine learning models to assist in drug therapy optimization.
Pharmacists specializing in regulatory affairs focus on ensuring compliance with government regulations and safety protocols.
Expanding Scope of Practice
Over the past few years, many U.S. states have passed or updated laws allowing pharmacists to administer vaccines beyond just the flu shot. For example, California’s AB 2109 (2013) expanded the list of vaccines pharmacists could administer, including vaccines for COVID-19 and shingles.
California (2019) passed a law allowing pharmacists to conduct point-of-care testing (such as for HIV, diabetes, and cholesterol) and to provide direct clinical services, significantly broadening their role in preventive healthcare.
Legislative changes, such as The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Regulations for Collaborative Practice Agreements, The Affordable Care Act (ACA) – Medication Therapy Management (MTM) Services, and state-level “Provider Status” laws, are pushing pharmacists to take on expanded roles, including administering vaccines, conducting health screenings, and managing chronic diseases. This trend will increase demand for pharmacy staff trained in direct patient care and collaborative practice agreements with physicians.
Telepharmacy Growth
Telepharmacy is enabling pharmacists to provide services to remote and underserved areas. This trend is expanding job opportunities in virtual pharmacy roles, providing services like medication counseling, medication therapy management, remote prescription verification and review, chronic disease management, patient education and adherence support, refill management, and medication synchronization. Professionals with strong communication skills and digital literacy will excel in this environment.
Focus on Workforce Flexibility
Pharmacy organizations are increasingly adopting flexible staffing models to address workforce burnout and attract talent. Part-time, per-diem, and remote positions are becoming more common. Employers are also focusing on enhancing work-life balance through improved scheduling and wellness initiatives.
Shortage of Pharmacy Technicians
The industry is experiencing a significant shortage of pharmacy technicians due to increased demand and high turnover rates. Demand for technicians is expected to increase by 35 percent in the next five years.
In order to attract and retain the best people in these positions, healthcare organizations need to focus on providing increased compensation and job satisfaction.
Diversity Initiatives
Pharmacy organizations are prioritizing diversity in hiring and promoting diverse workplaces. This focus not only improves team relationships but also enhances patient care by ensuring cultural competence in serving diverse populations.
As 2025 unfolds, pharmacy staffing trends will reflect the profession’s adaptability to technological advancements and its expanding role in healthcare, emphasizing the need for a skilled, flexible, and diverse workforce.
Looking to hire pharmacists? Rx relief is ready to help.
As a top pharmacy staffing agency, we’ve earned Best of Staffing® awards for client and talent satisfaction. Discover how Rx relief can assist you—give us a call today.
