Comparison of job satisfaction for compounders and noncompounders

Job satisfaction among independent community pharmacists who were classified as compounders and noncompounders was measured using a mail questionnaire. Two previously validated survey instruments that measured job satisfaction were adapted for use in this study. Additional questions determined the volume of compounded prescriptions the respondents dispensed. Questionnaires were mailed to randomly selected independent community pharmacists in the United States and Canada. The response rate was 53.4%(n=391). The researcher classified independent community pharmacists who dispensed greater than or equal to five compounded prescriptions daily as compounders and those who dispensed less than or equal to four compounded prescriptions daily as non-compounders. Fifty-four percent (n=200) of all respondents were classified as compounders. Of the six satisfaction dimensions measured, responses to five of the dimensions were significantly different for compounders versus noncompounders. The results indicate that pharmacists' job satisfaction levels may be improved if intrinsic factors are satisfied in their job role. Since prescription compounding provides satisfaction with several intrinsic factors such as variety, challenge and use of skills, independent community pharmacists may improve their job satisfaction levels by providing prescription compounding services.