Assessing the Workplace Cyberloafing Behavior among Pharmacists in Pakistan

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Practice
• Digital Workplace Behavior
• Health Sector Management

Background:

• Cyberloafing, the use of the internet for non-work-related purposes during work hours, is a growing concern across various professions.
• While prevalent globally, research on cyberloafing among healthcare professionals, specifically pharmacists in Pakistan, remains limited.
• Understanding cyberloafing is crucial given its potential impact on productivity and the essential role of pharmacists in the healthcare system.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of cyberloafing activities among pharmacists in Pakistan.
• To identify factors associated with cyberloafing behavior in this professional group.
• To explore the relationship between cyberloafing and perceived internet skills among Pakistan pharmacists.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 242 registered pharmacists in Pakistan.
• Data were collected via a structured, self-administered online questionnaire between October 2021 and February 2022.
• Statistical analyses included exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, and Pearson Chi-square tests.

Main Results:

• Cyberloafing behavior was found to be prevalent among the surveyed pharmacists.
• Pharmacists engaged most in sharing-related activities and least in gambling/gaming.
• Age, internet usage, and work area were significantly associated with cyberloafing behaviors, which were also linked to perceived internet skills.

Conclusions:

• Cyberloafing is a prevalent issue among pharmacists in Pakistan, necessitating attention from management.
• The findings offer insights for improving pharmacy management and addressing digital workplace behaviors within the Pakistan health sector.