A recent survey by the Oregon Board of Pharmacy reported that more than 350 chain pharmacists — more than half of those responding — said their working conditions don’t promote safe and effective patient care.

Many complained it is getting worse. “I feel that we are operating on the edge of disaster,” wrote one. “It is a danger zone for us and our patients.”

Last summer, the state board hosted an online survey for roughly 5,700 licensed pharmacists licensed in Oregon. The results were gratifying and disturbing, says board member Ann Zweber. She hadn’t expected so many to respond — more than 1,300; unfortunately, many responded by reporting safety concerns.

“People had a lot to say,” she says. “It concerns me greatly.”

The survey results describe a profession in transition. Independent pharmacies, which once dominated Oregon, now number just 214 out of about 750 retail pharmacies, according to state records. As independents give way to large chains and mail-order operations, increased competition is inserting a bottom-line mentality into the way people get their pills.

Only 25.9 percent of chain store pharmacists agreed working conditions promoted safe and effective patient care — compared to 76 percent of pharmacists at independent pharmacies.

The survey data isn’t perfect. It’s anonymous and pharmacists were allowed to self-report their type of workplace. But the board believes the survey is credible, Zweber said.