After more than 40 years in retail pharmacy, Will Stevens found himself in a place many pharmacists can relate to—exhausted, unfulfilled, and questioning whether his career still aligned with his passion for patient care. As a second-generation pharmacist, Will had grown up working in his father’s independent pharmacy. The personal relationships he built with patients back then were what inspired him to continue in the profession.
But as the retail pharmacy landscape evolved, so did his role.
The Pain of Retail Pharmacy
Will’s retail experience turned into a high-stress environment he could no longer tolerate. He described it bluntly as a “script mill,” where the meaningful patient interactions that once fueled him had disappeared.
“The special relationship that you had with your patients really no longer exists in a retail chain environment. You’re just running scripts, back and forth, giving shots. The demand is unrealistic.”
With long hours, overnight shifts, and no real work-life balance, Will felt trapped. And like many pharmacists, he had concerns about what transitioning to a different role might mean for his financial security.
The Turning Point: Seeking Help
Frustrated by the lack of progress in his job search, Will decided it was time for expert guidance. He enrolled in the Pharmacy Career Coaching program, where he found the support he needed to craft a stronger resume and refine his job search strategy.
“My job search before the program was disappointing. I had a subpar resume, and I was applying here and there on job boards like Indeed, but wasn’t getting any traction.”
Through personalized coaching, Will gained clarity on what kind of pharmacy role would truly fulfill him. He set his sights on a clinic-based pharmacy position where he could connect more with patients and enjoy a stable schedule. The program’s guidance proved invaluable as he began applying to more targeted opportunities that aligned with his vision.
The Transition: From Retail to Clinic Pharmacy
After a focused job search, Will secured a position in a psychiatric clinic pharmacy—a setting that aligned perfectly with his goals. His new role allows him to interact with clinic patients, offering them guidance on their medications in a more personalized and less rushed environment.
“I’m excited to be in a place where I can truly be a pharmacist again. Now, I can explain medications, make sure patients understand how to take them, and answer all their questions.”
One of the unique aspects of Will’s new job is the clinic’s use of individualized dosing packs, where patients receive blister packs that clearly show what medication to take at each time of day. This has allowed him to build closer relationships with patients, ensuring they feel supported in their treatment plans.
A Compelling Future: The Benefits of His New Role
The impact of this career shift has been transformative for Will, both professionally and personally. Here are the key benefits that have redefined his life:
Work-life balance: Will now enjoys a 9-to-5 schedule with no weekend or holiday shifts—giving him the time he needs to enjoy life outside of work.
Family time: With his new routine, Will spends more time with his wife and regularly visits his daughters in college, something that wasn’t possible with his previous overnight schedule.
Professional fulfillment: In the clinic setting, Will has regained what he loves most about being a pharmacist—meaningful patient interactions.
Financial stability: Despite his concerns, Will didn’t have to sacrifice pay. In fact, the performance bonuses in his new role have positioned him to earn more than he did in retail.
“People are scared to leave retail because they think they’ll lose money. But if you find the right fit, the pay can actually be better. And you’re not sacrificing your sanity for it!”
Final Thoughts: Will’s Advice to Others
Will’s story is a testament to the fact that change is possible, and you don’t have to accept burnout as the cost of being a pharmacist. He advises other pharmacists in similar situations to not fear stepping out of retail, emphasizing the importance of investing in a clear strategy.
“The biggest doubt I had about joining the coaching program was the financial investment. But in the end, it was absolutely worth it. The tools and support helped me secure the job I have now, and I’m so much happier for it.”
For pharmacists feeling stuck, Will’s journey serves as a beacon of hope. You don’t have to compromise on pay, fulfillment, or your mental well-being. A rewarding pharmacy career is out there—you just need the right guidance to find it.
