Job Satisfaction and Associated Factors Among Pharmacy Professionals in Nepal: A Cross-Sectional Study

Job satisfaction encompasses the degree to which an individual's essential needs, including health, security, sustenance, affiliation, and esteem, are fulfilled through their occupation. Pharmacists play a vital role in healthcare by providing crucial services that address patients' medication requirements and improve adherence. This study sought to evaluate job satisfaction and the factors influencing it among pharmacy professionals in Nepal. A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted from May to September 2024 using a self-administered semi-structured questionnaire to assess pharmacists' job satisfaction. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 25. The prevalence of job satisfaction was reported to be 42.3%. Statistically significant predictors after adjustment included a positive impact on time spent with patients/customers/students (aOR 0.409, P = .017), motivation to work (aOR 0.291, P = .003), and mental/emotional health (aOR 0.272, P = .003). Agreement that the organization has a significant meaning (aOR 0.235, P = .001) and that salary is appropriate (aOR 0.209, P = .001) also significantly influenced satisfaction. A willingness to choose the pharmacy profession again was associated with higher satisfaction (aOR 0.294, P = .014). The study revealed substantial job dissatisfaction among pharmacy professionals in Nepal, with only 35.2% reporting overall satisfaction. Addressing the primary factors that influence job satisfaction could enhance retention and stability in the pharmacy sector. Healthcare institutions and policymakers must prioritize the creation of a supportive work environment that meets the expectations and requirements of this critical workforce.