The COVID-19 pandemic has placed an immense burden on our profession. We recognize that there is a significant prevalence of beyond burnout for the healthcare workforce as a whole. According to a Harvard Business Review article, there are six main causes of burnout including an unsustainable workload and perceived lack of control.

Burnout not only affects the healthcare provider but also the patient. Studies show burnout affects the patients as more errors occur when an individual is burned out.  Burnout is also contagious in the workplace.  Not surprisingly, happiness is contagious as well.  Your attitude matters, not only for your own health but also for the well-being of your co-workers and family.

The Virginia Pharmacists Association is encouraging members to check in on their pharmacy colleagues, friends, and family on October 5, 2021, to see if they are doing well and help them find resources if they are experiencing hardship. As part of the initiative, pharmacists and technicians can text, zoom, email, or make phone calls to catch up on what’s going on in each other’s lives.

You can show your support by posting on social media with the hashtag #VPhABuddyCheck