(1258) Contributions and Challenges of Community Pharmacists in Puerto Rico During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Objectives: This study assesses the contributions made by community pharmacists and explores their coping mechanisms throughout the COVID-19 pandemic in Puerto Rico. They have encountered unprecedented challenges and played a vital role in this public health emergency.

Methods: Two open-ended questions: What do you feel has been your greatest contribution during the COVID-19 pandemic? and What strategies have you implemented to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic? were added to a cross-sectional online survey evaluating perceived stress and burnout among community pharmacists during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using voluntary sampling, the survey and questions were distributed to all community pharmacists in Puerto Rico (N=1,200) using the Redcap platform and shared through the Puerto Rico Pharmacist Association listserv, social media, and professional chats. Data collection occurred from November 19 to December 17, 2021. This will report the results of the inductive thematic analysis of these open ended questions.

Results: Eighty-five pharmacists responded to at least one of the open-ended questions. Most were female (77%), with a mean age of 47.2 (±13.2). Fifty-four percent worked in independent community pharmacies. Thirty-three percent practiced as staff pharmacists. An inductive thematic analysis of the open-ended responses revealed key themes, including institutional and personal coping mechanisms, professional contributions, the impact of COVID-19, barriers, and unappreciation. Coping mechanisms included adhering to COVID-19 regulations and minimizing exposure. Immunization was identified as a crucial contribution. Barriers including complex vaccine processes and inadequate supplies were highlighted. They felt unappreciated, stressed, and overworked, citing a lack of compensation and professional recognition.

Conclusions: Community pharmacists in Puerto Rico have demonstrated resilience by employing coping mechanisms and overcoming barriers to ensure uninterrupted care. Their contributions have encompassed giving education about COVID-19, administering immunizations, and providing support to patients throughout the pandemic. However, they are experiencing a sense of unappreciation. Addressing their concerns is crucial, and their experiences should be considered for future public health initiatives.