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Locum pharmacy

Great satisfaction provided

From Mrs A. Morant, MRPharmS

Susan Coyle asks, “Why do locums not stand up for themselves?” (PJ, May 5, p622). May I reply from the standpoint of a mature pharmacist with many years experience as a locum.

Some years ago a young pharmacist asked me what was the first requirement to be satisfied if one was to make a career of being a locum pharmacist. My response at the time was “not to need the job”.

Over the years, my opinion has not changed. One always needs to be able to say, “No thank you. I am not prepared to do this.” Examples that I have come across include working a whole day without a break and being asked to dispense out of date stock and to push lines with the best profit margin irrespective of my opinion of their appropriateness. Although most employers act ethically and show due regard for those they employ, one can be sure that not all do.

If one needs the security of a regular income, one should not attempt to make a career as a locum (even though it may form a useful stop-gap). On the other hand, it provides great satisfaction for those who like variety and the stimulation of new challenges together with meeting again with old friends.

Annette Morant
Edgware, Middlesex

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