Benefits and work-schedule options for female hospital pharmacists

Female hospital pharmacists were surveyed to determine what benefits and work-schedule options they want and how they feel about those currently offered. Questionnaires were mailed to 750 randomly selected female ASHP members to (1) collect employment and personal data, (2) determine which of 13 family-related benefits and work-schedule options were offered at their institutions, (3) assess use of and attitudes about these options, and (4) determine whether use and attitudes differ by position or parental status. The options included in the survey were selected because they represent ways of balancing home and work (e.g., job sharing, day care, parental leave). The usable response rate was 65.3%. About 59% were married and 40% had children. Most (83.3%) held full-time positions, and 36.5% held staff nonclinical positions. More than 70% of the respondents indicated that a flexible schedule, flextime, and maternity leave were important in combining personal and professional roles. Respondents indicated that many of the benefits and work-schedule options that were not routinely offered would be used to a great extent if offered. Forty percent reported satisfaction with current benefits and work-schedule options. Many surveyed female ASHP members considered their current benefits and work-schedule options less than optimal and would be interested in more flexible schedules and benefits.