Walmart hikes technician wages in a bid to hire 5,000 this year

Amid ongoing pharmacy technician shortages in both health-systems and community pharmacies, Walmart has taken definitive action to shore up its workforce. This summer, the corporate giant announced a new wage structure as well pay raises that boosted current technicians’ average salaries more than $20 per hour.“We are sending strong message technicians everywhere is serious about attracting top talent giving them tools build successful career with us,” said Lisa Smith, PharmD, senior director of clinical operations strategy for Health & Wellness.Competitive modelWhile Walmart's starting remains same at $15 $22.50 hour, allows larger frequent hikes hires permits salary increases $4 hour over 4 years. During first two years employment, will get every six months.As it model, also doled out blanket raise increased an hour—significantly higher 2021 industry $17.66 reported by Bureau Labor Statistics. It was second last year.Certified start minimum $16.50 can earn $3 who not certified. Under system, covers all costs certification.Shortages high turnover across professionWhile did cite motivation increases, these realities profession facing health-system settings.In 2021, majority administrators rates least 21%, according survey published American Society Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). In conducted National Community Association year, 68% independent pharmacies difficulty filling staff positions 88% cited shortage technicians.Organizations represent have called technicians.“We want change perception so hospital executives leaders understand there unique complexity what do try wages would be commensurate work hospitals health systems,” David Chen, BSPharm, ASHP assistant vice president leadership planning.In separate on job satisfaction, three-quarters stated improve retention technicians. A quarter desire ladder clear path promotion.Walmart offering move corporation hopes help hire approximately 5,000 this year.“We believe we're one large retailers incorporate kind model—an approach commonly seen care system,” Smith said.Techs critical operationsPharmacy often force pharmacists fill those roles. Nearly 9 10 responded ASHP's they ask take tasks typically performed technicians.Walmart's scale aims retain order keep running smoothly practicing their licenses.“Each our rely techs meet needs communities we serve. They played integral role vaccinating public continue allow practice full capabilities,” said. “By recognizing compensation growth, acknowledging play patient supporting clinicians.” hour. “We Wellness. Competitive certification. While months. As year. Certified Shortages settings. Organizations planning. promotion. Techs Pharmacy licenses. “Each