White coats, Black lives-racial trauma in Black pharmacists

Race-based traumatic stress, or racial trauma, can negatively impact the health and wellbeing of Black health professionals. However, the effects of racial trauma among Black pharmacists have not been thoroughly explored.

The purpose of this study is to explore Black pharmacist experiences of race-based traumatic stress and its effects in the workplace.

This qualitative study utilized focus groups among a convenience sample of Black pharmacist attendees of a national convention for an organization dedicated to serving underserved communities and minoritized pharmacy professionals. The data were analyzed with inductive coding and thematic analysis as proposed by Braun and Clark.

Three focus groups were conducted with a total of 22 participants. The majority of participants were female (77%), and the average age of the participants was 48.3 years old. Three themes related to racial trauma were identified. The participants described racial trauma as an ever-present phenomenon, tension with coworkers and institutions, and internal and external structures of support. The Black pharmacists in this study provided context and recommendations for employers to support their wellbeing.

An awareness of the hidden wounds that Black pharmacists carry with them to work every day is an important factor in creating diverse and inclusive workplaces. The results of this study give Black pharmacists a voice and a chance to share with colleagues their distinct realities. Employers and institutions should assess individual needs and implement strategies to support Black pharmacists in creating more inclusive work and professional environments.