ABSTRACT

This study examines the decision-making practices and challenges faced by pharmacies in the Buea Municipality, Cameroon. Effective decision-making is critical to organizational success, particularly in healthcare settings like pharmacies. The research seeks to identify the common practices and challenges pharmacy managers encounter when making decisions.

Data were collected using surveys and interviews from a sample of pharmacy managers and employees in Buea. The survey assessed key areas such as decision-making processes, managerial styles, employee involvement, and the use of data in decision-making. The interviews provided deeper insights into specific challenges that managers face, including operational difficulties, regulatory issues, and employee resistance to decisions.

The study revealed that decision-making in pharmacies is often hierarchical, with most decisions made by top management. While this allows for swift action in urgent situations, it limits employee participation. Employees reported feeling left out of key decisions, which can lead to disengagement and dissatisfaction. On the other hand, pharmacy managers explained that the nature of the business sometimes requires quick, authoritative decisions, particularly regarding stock management and regulatory compliance.

The main challenges identified include the lack of adequate data to inform decisions, regulatory constraints, and limited employee involvement. Managers frequently reported difficulties in obtaining real-time sales data and forecasting customer demand, which can lead to stockouts or overstocking. Additionally, regulatory requirements from health authorities often impose constraints on operational decisions, complicating day-to-day management.

Another major challenge is resistance to change among employees. When new decisions or policies are introduced, many employees struggle to adapt, which slows down the implementation of crucial changes. Training programs aimed at improving employee engagement in the decision-making process were found to be lacking, contributing to this resistance.

In conclusion, improving decision-making practices in pharmacies requires a more inclusive approach, where employees are involved in the decision-making process. Additionally, better data management systems and regular staff training can help alleviate the challenges faced by pharmacy managers. Addressing these issues can lead to more effective management and better operational outcomes. Future studies could explore how technology can support decision-making processes in pharmacies.

Keywords: decision-making, pharmacies, Buea, management, employee involvement, regulatory challenges, data management.