For 27 years, I have dedicated my life to the profession of pharmacy, serving the community tirelessly. Recently, when I requested anti-fatigue mats to mitigate the adverse effects of standing for long hours on hard floors, I was demoted and put on unpaid reassignment leave with a lower pay grade for 90 days as a result of having a medical doctor letter restricting driving roundtrip to no more than 3 hours a day to stores  after standing excessively for my full shift.  . Not only did this impact my career, but I am now facing significant health challenges, including a C2 spinal lesion and T2 hemangioma. Sadly, my story is not unique. It represents the plight of thousands of retail pharmacists across America who are subjected to occupational hazards daily.

Retail pharmacists often stand for more than ten-hour shifts on hard concrete floors, leading to severe discomfort and long-term health issues such as spinal problems, circulatory disorders, and joint pain. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, pharmacy is a growing field with over 300,000 pharmacists in the United States, many of whom endure these challenges without adequate workplace support.

Research from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) indicates that prolonged standing is a risk factor for various health complications. Moreover, numerous studies have shown that using anti-fatigue mats can reduce fatigue-related ailments by up to 50%. Many countries have already implemented laws mandating ergonomic solutions in the workplace, especially for professions requiring prolonged standing.

It’s time we act and protect the health and well-being of pharmacists nationwide by requiring every retail pharmacy in America to provide a stool or chair and anti-fatigue mats as a legal obligation. Such measures would not only protect pharmacists but also improve morale and efficiency within the pharmacy industry, ensuring pharmacists can assist patients to the best of their abilities.

With 50,000 signatures, we aim to take this appeal to Congress to advocate for a nationwide mandate. Together, we can create a safer and fairer working environment for retail pharmacists across the country.

Join us in supporting this essential cause by signing the petition today. Your signature could make all the difference in the lives of countless pharmacists.