Pharmacies in Seattle are working to normalize as state’s mask mandate is set to end. This means a change for all entities that were directly involved. This includes hospitals, major drugs companies and pharmacies.
Pharmacies were hit hard during the height of the omicron surge. There were staffing shortages as many decided not to risk leaving their homes to go to work. Also, vaccines programs to deal with and long wait times for prescription drugs.
Some pharmacy chains are now operating at 80-90% pre-omicron staffing levels, prescription wait times and vaccine appointment availability. Some companies made decisions to close locations an hour early each day to allow staff to fill prescriptions after a full day of vaccine appointments.
Some companies created staffing incentives like career opportunities for pharmacy technicians and a student loan plan for 2022 pharmacy students. It is unclear if such incentives will stay in place.
There is still a possible second booster this fall and vaccines for kids ages 5 and under. Some pharmacies have set a goal to ensure COVID-19 tests remain in stock.
In addition some drugstores are offering an oral antiviral treatment at their locations. Mask mandates are lifting the requirements for most public places on March 12, however, pharmacies are still ordering masks.
