Factors influencing the distribution of pharmacy graduates of the University of the North, South Africa.

Objective: To establish the whereabouts of pharmacists trained at the University of the North (UNIN), and the factors that influenced their career choices.

Design: Descriptive, cross-sectional study using quantitative and qualitative approaches.

Setting: Department of Pharmacy, University of Limpopo, South Africa.

Results: Most of the 582 pharmacy graduates from UNIN (1966 - 2003) work in South Africa. The questionnaire was sent to 233 graduates and 129 (55.4%) responses were received, of which 121 were analysed. Eighty five (70.2%) respondents were of rural origin; 46.3% work in rural areas and 62.8% in the public sector. Graduates of rural origin were more likely to work in rural areas and the public sector than those of urban origin. Job satisfaction was not related to income. Professional development and service to the community were more commonly cited motivations for taking up the present job than pay. However, 25% of respondents would change jobs for better pay. The most fulfilling aspects of pharmacy practice were interactions with patients, while the most frustrating ones were doctors, restrictive legislation, lack of recognition for the pharmacy profession and poor pay. The focus group discussions and interviews reinforced the above views, with suggested areas for improvement e.g. conditions of service, rural infrastructure and pharmacist involvement in the health system.

Conclusions: Most UNIN-trained pharmacists are within South Africa. Pharmacists of rural origin were more likely to work in rural areas and the public sector than those of urban origins. Both financial and non-financial incentives are needed to attract pharmacists to underserved areas.