[Translated article] Generational priorities, motivations, concerns, and expectations of hospital pharmacists in...

To analyze generational differences in priorities, motivations, concerns, and professional expectations among pharmacists working in Hospital Pharmacy Services in Spain, in order to generate actionable evidence to guide strategies for managing intergenerational relationships and work engagement, as well as professional development and team well-being.

Cross-sectional descriptive study based on an online survey of members of the Spanish Society of Hospital Pharmacists who were practicing as pharmacists or undergoing specialty training in Hospital Pharmacy Services in Spain. The questionnaire, reviewed by an expert panel, was administered from 16 to 29 January 2024 and comprised 18 items grouped into three sections: demographic data, socio-occupational context, and professional domain. Descriptive and between-generation comparative analyses were conducted using ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis, Fisher's exact test, and χ² (p < 0.05).

A total of 620 professionals participated (16% members). Recommendation of the hospital as a workplace was high and similar across generations; however, ratings of the Hospital Pharmacy Service and perceptions of the current status of Hospital Pharmacy differed, with higher scores among older cohorts. Work climate and work-life balance were the most valued job factors, with generational preferences differing for items such as teaching, professional recognition, and autonomy. Stress was the most frequently reported concern across all cohorts, with intergenerational differences in other work-related factors. Generational variation was also observed in key work concerns, professional motivations, perceptions of the current state of Hospital Pharmacy, and strategic priorities. Differences by generation were also observed in professional motivations and expectations, including institutional engagement and perceived future challenges in Hospital Pharmacy.

This study shows intergenerational differences in priorities, concerns, motivations, and expectations among hospital pharmacists. Although work climate and work-life balance remain among the most selected priorities and stress is the main concern across all cohorts, generation-specific patterns across the evaluated dimensions suggest the need for management and professional development approaches tailored to multigenerational teams.