Implementation and evaluation of a flexitime program involving pharmacy i.v. admixture technicians.

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Practice
• Occupational Health
• Workplace Management

Background:

• Flexitime, an alternative to standard work schedules, is known to positively impact various work-related behaviors.
• Previous studies indicate benefits in productivity, overtime, turnover, absenteeism, tardiness, and job satisfaction across different settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and evaluate a flexitime program for i.v. admixture personnel.
• To assess the program's impact on absenteeism, tardiness, and job satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• A flexitime program, specifically the 'variable day' schedule, was implemented for i.v. admixture technicians and interns.
• Key work-related behaviors including absenteeism, tardiness, and job satisfaction were measured during a baseline period and the flexitime period.

Main Results:

• Tardiness was nearly eliminated under the flexitime program.
• Absenteeism decreased from 4.61% to 2.66%, though not statistically significant.
• General job satisfaction showed no significant change.

Conclusions:

• The flexitime program was favored by technicians, with suggestions for expansion.
• Flexitime demonstrates potential for reducing tardiness and absenteeism in pharmacy settings.
• Pharmacy managers may consider flexitime as a strategy to reduce departmental costs, pending further research.