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Hospital pharmacist positions going unfilled

February 13, 2024 2:21 pm in by

Claims of 40 percent of hospital pharmacist positions going unfilled in Tasmania are being put down to overworked employees seeking greener pastures elsewhere.

The Health and Community Services Union also blames lower pay rates than interstate.

Royal Hobart Hospital Pharmacist Lauren Vanier says the problems are having a major impact.

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“You’re trying to cover two people’s jobs. Obviously, that’s going to affect morale in the department,” she said.

“We aren’t being paid as much as on the mainland.

“Someone gets a job offer – what are they going to do? They’re going to jump ship at the earliest opportunity.”

A Department of Health spokesperson said hospital pharmacy recruitment was being heavily influenced by a national shortage of qualified professionals.

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