Is CVS Worth It? What You Need to Know Before Applying

by | Jan 29, 2025 | Career, Career Path, Industry, Pharmacy, Workplace Matters

CVS, the pharmacy giant, has become a source of significant concern for many pharmacists and pharmacy professionals. It’s a story of a company that, despite bringing in staggering revenue, is struggling under the weight of internal challenges that are creating a fractured work environment. In 2024, CVS is projected to bring in $368 billion in revenue, with health services and pharmacy contributing the lion’s share. So why, with all this money flowing in, are they closing 900 stores, and why are pharmacists walking out?

 

 

It’s not just about job satisfaction, but a system stretched too thin. Chronic understaffing, overwhelming metrics, and an inability to keep up with the growing demands are pushing pharmacists to their breaking points. Many are working through breaks, facing unsafe workloads, and dealing with impossible expectations. The constant pressure is not only affecting their well-being but also jeopardizing patient safety. Pharmacists are under so much strain that it’s becoming impossible for them to provide the level of care they know their patients need.

Corporate leadership, including former CEO Karen Lynch, received astronomical salaries, far removed from the reality on the ground. While the company claimed to prioritize mental health, the lived experience of pharmacists tells a very different story. In fact, many pharmacists have shared their frustration through reviews, exposing the tension between corporate promises and the day-to-day challenges of working at CVS. Some pharmacists report their experiences as great learning opportunities or good pay, but the majority of feedback paints a grim picture—overworked, underappreciated, and constantly stressed.

One striking similarity between these reviews is the transition from optimism to burnout. Those who start at CVS are often hopeful, but that enthusiasm wanes as the relentless pressure begins to take its toll. Short staffing, lack of support, and an unrelenting focus on metrics lead to job dissatisfaction. Pharmacists feel more like they’re working in a fast-food chain than in a healthcare setting—rushing to meet goals rather than focusing on patient care.

If you’re considering a job at CVS, it’s important to go in with your eyes wide open. Don’t just look at the salary and the promise of stability. Take time to assess the work environment and management structure. Ask tough questions in your interview about how staff is supported, what the culture is like, and how the company addresses internal issues. In the fast-paced retail setting, leadership can make or break your experience. Be sure to observe how things run during busy hours, and pay attention to how management treats staff during stressful moments. These observations will tell you a lot about the long-term sustainability of the job.

Ultimately, CVS could be a good stepping stone for your career, especially if you’re able to find a supportive district and management team. However, the work environment in many locations is far from ideal. If you decide to pursue a career there, be prepared to face challenges, and don’t let the allure of a steady paycheck cloud your judgment.

As you think about your future in pharmacy, remember that your career is too important to leave to chance. Whether you choose to work at CVS or another company, make informed decisions, ask tough questions, and stay committed to your long-term goals. Your future is in your hands.

Sharing is Caring

Creating Happy Pharmacists

If you really want to build the career and life that you’ve dreamed of, one where you are helping people and working in a field that you love, you need to do something different than what you’ve been doing.

Through coaching you can re-discover why you became a pharmacist and find your passion again.