Leadership Approaches to Staff Health and Wellness During COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Background: COVID-19 disease as caused by a coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2 has taken the world by storm with upwards of 8 million confirmed infections in more than 190 countries. At the writing of this article, over 2 million Americans are confirmed infected and 117,000 have died. Rapid changes to manage COVID-19 care creates significant physical and emotional stress for healthcare employees, including pharmacy staff. Objective: This article provides pharmacy leaders with advice in leading through COVID-19 to promote staff resiliency. Methods: The specific leadership strategies include: (1) identifying and addressing fundamental needs; (2) communicating updated and reliable information; and (3) providing psychological and mental health support. Conclusion: Using various techniques described will help to preserve workforce resilience in providing patient-centered pharmacy services. After reading this article, pharmacy directors will have strategies and resources to maintain employee resiliency during this difficult time.