1
|
Auimekhakul T, Suttajit S, Suwannaprom P. Pharmaceutical public health competencies for Thai pharmacists: A scoping review with expert consultation. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2024; 14:100444. [PMID: 38712325 PMCID: PMC11070631 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2024.100444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Thai pharmacists' roles have increasingly shifted to a system-focused role in providing public health services. A competency framework in this area is essential to workforce development. Objective This study aimed to summarize and synthesize the literature on pharmaceutical public health competencies of Thai pharmacists. Methods The Scopus, MEDLINE, and Web of Science (Clarivate) databases were searched. The search criteria included "public health", "health promotion", "primary care", "community pharmacy", "pharmacy" and "pharmacist". Documents published in English and Thai between January 2011 and December 2020 were also examined. Unpublished documents were included. A 3-step inductive coding technique was used to develop the competency framework. To validate the findings, a 2-round, modified Delphi method was employed with 20 Thai pharmaceutical specialists between August 2022 and January 2023. The Scale-level Content Validity Index (S-CVI) was used to assess validity. Results The database search yielded 1429 articles. Fifty-seven articles were selected. The analysis identified 5 competency domains. The domains, along with their related competency elements and behavioral statements, were provided for expert assessment. The S-CVI scores in the first and second rounds were 0.78 and 0.93, respectively. The terminology and categories of competencies have been improved. This outcome resulted in a pharmaceutical public health competency framework for Thai pharmacists. The framework consists of 5 competency domains: 1) individual and family health promotion (3 competency elements with 10 behavioral statements), 2) community empowerment for well-being communities (6 competency elements with 23 behavioral statements), 3) information management and evidence-based practice (3 competency elements with 10 behavioral statements), 4) communication for health promotion (3 competency elements with 6 behavioral statements), and 5) pharmacoepidemiology and support for public health emergencies and epidemics (2 competency elements with 5 behavioral statements). Conclusion Pharmaceutical public health competencies for Thai pharmacists were developed through extensive literature review and expert consultation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thanayut Auimekhakul
- Consumer Health Protection and Pharmaceutical Public Health, Chiang Mai Provincial Public Health Office, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Master's Degree Program in Pharmacy Management, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Siritree Suttajit
- Department of Pharmaceutical Care, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Puckwipa Suwannaprom
- Department of Pharmaceutical Care, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tamiru H, Huluka SA, Negash B, Hailu K, Mekonen ZT. National Continuing Professional Development (CPD) training needs of pharmacists in Ethiopia. HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH 2023; 21:87. [PMID: 37936234 PMCID: PMC10631163 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-023-00873-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in pharmacy is a lifelong learning approach whereby individual pharmacists are responsible for updating and broadening their knowledge, skills, and attitudes. This is vital to ensure the delivery of high-quality patient care services. However, there is a lack of available data revealing the CPD needs of Ethiopian pharmacists. Thus, the objective of this study was to identify CPD training needs of pharmacists practicing in Ethiopia. METHODS An institution-based cross-sectional study design with a quantitative approach was employed in this study. This assessment involved 640 pharmacists representing various sectors of the profession. Data were collected through a combination of an online platform and a face-to-face questionnaire administered in person. RESULT A total of 634 participants completed and returned the questionnaires, resulting in an impressive response rate of 99.1%. A significant majority (74.1%) of the participants possessed bachelor's degree in pharmacy (B. Pharm). Pharmaceutical Logistics and Pharmacy administration was preferentially selected as a prior CPD course by 36% of participants, of them while Pharmacotherapy (17%), Leadership/Governance (13%), Community Pharmacy (12%), Research and Development (11%) were also the subsequent top choices by participants. Off-site face-to-face lectures (59.2%), Hybrid (face-to-face + e-learning) (54.8%), and on-site on-the-job training (45.5%) were the most convenient means of CPD course delivery. On the other hand, the participants least favored print-based or correspondence programs for CPD course delivery. CONCLUSIONS CPD holds great importance in the professional lives of pharmacists. It is critical for pharmacists, CPD providers, and those responsible for accrediting CPD programs to recognize the specific CPD requirements, preferred methods of delivery, and obstacles involved. This understanding is vital for establishing priorities and effectively planning CPD activities. In light of this, our study identified the most preferred CPD training courses and convenient delivery methods for pharmacists in Ethiopia. We recommend that CPD providers and accrediting bodies in Ethiopia refer to our findings when approving CPD courses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Solomon Assefa Huluka
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Bezawit Negash
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Social Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Kidu Hailu
- Ethiopian Pharmaceutical Association, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Zelalem Tilahun Mekonen
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Social Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sakr F, Akel M, Sacre H, Haddad C, Tawil S, Safwan J, Hajj A, Zeenny RM, Iskandar K, Salameh P. The specialized competency framework for community pharmacists (SCF-CP) in Lebanon: validation and evaluation of the revised version. J Pharm Policy Pract 2023; 16:77. [PMID: 37344915 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-023-00585-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the absence of similar studies in Lebanon, this study aimed at upgrading and validating the Lebanese specialized competencies framework for community pharmacists (SCF-CP) as a tool to transform community practice and support the professional development and career progression of community pharmacists. METHODS Content validity was assessed and improved through a team of experts. After a thorough literature review and utilizing the Delphi technique, six domains were defined in the framework, with their respective competencies and behaviors. A cross-sectional study was then carried out from March to October 2022 using an online questionnaire created on Google Forms. The snowball technique was applied to reach community pharmacists across all the Lebanese governorates. RESULTS The final sample included 512 community pharmacists. The construct validity of the framework was confirmed by factor analysis. The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin measures of sampling adequacy were satisfactory for all models ranging from 0.500 to 0.956 with a significant Bartlett's test of sphericity (P < 0.001). The internal consistency of all competency domains was confirmed by Cronbach's alpha, with values ranging from 0.803 to 0.953. All competencies were significantly correlated with their respective domains (P < 0.001), and all domains were significantly correlated with each other and with the framework (P < 0.001). The participants declared being competent in all domains relating to fundamental skills, safe and rational use of medicines, pharmacy management, professional skills, public health fundamentals, and emergency preparedness and response, with some exceptions, such as compounding, management, and emergency preparedness. A higher declared competency level was associated with having more experience and receiving more than 50 patients per day. CONCLUSION Our findings could demonstrate that the Lebanese specialized competency framework is a valid and reliable tool. This framework could help assess the minimum competencies that community pharmacists should possess or acquire and direct initial and continuing education for better practice. Hence, it could be adopted by the authorities and implemented in the Lebanese community pharmacy setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fouad Sakr
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon.
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique Et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon.
| | - Marwan Akel
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique Et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon
- School of Education, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hala Sacre
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique Et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Chadia Haddad
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique Et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon
- Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
- School of Health Sciences, Modern University of Business and Science, Beirut, Lebanon
- Research Department, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, Jal El Dib, Lebanon
| | - Samah Tawil
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique Et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon
- Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Jihan Safwan
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique Et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Aline Hajj
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique Et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon
- Laboratoire de Pharmacologie, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacie Clinique et Contrôle de Qualité Des Médicament (LPCQM), Saint Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
- Oncology Division, CHU de Québec Université Laval Research Center, Québec, Canada
| | - Rony M Zeenny
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique Et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Pharmacy, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Katia Iskandar
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique Et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Hadat, Lebanon
| | - Pascale Salameh
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique Et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon
- Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Hadat, Lebanon
- University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia, Cyprus
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Alfaifi S, Bridges S, Arakawa N. Developing pharmacists' competencies in Saudi Arabia: A proposed national competency framework to support initial education and professional development. CURRENTS IN PHARMACY TEACHING & LEARNING 2022; 14:1256-1268. [PMID: 36280556 DOI: 10.1016/j.cptl.2022.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION With the currently accelerating changes in pharmacists' roles in Saudi Arabia, evidence-based developmental tools are required to guide initial pharmacy education and define competencies for early career (foundation level) pharmacists' progression. This study aimed to develop a profession-wide competency framework for foundation level pharmacists in Saudi Arabia using the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) Global Competency Framework (GbCF) as the source framework. METHODS An online nominal group technique was used to develop consensus on a profession-wide national competency framework in Saudi Arabia. Purposive sampling was used to recruit experts from local various pharmacy sectors. A combination of self-administered surveys and online meetings was used to measure and develop consensus. The survey items were adopted from the FIP GbCF version 2. RESULTS Nine pharmacy experts participated in five iterative rounds of consensus measurement and development between July and November 2021. Consensus was achieved on appropriateness to Saudi pharmacy practice for all the behaviours in the "Pharmaceutical Public Health," "Pharmaceutical Care," and "Professional/Personal" clusters. The "Organisation and Management" cluster caused most differences of opinion. The final consensus generated a list of 125 behavioural statements for inclusion in the national competency framework. CONCLUSION This study proposes the first competency framework for foundation level pharmacists in Saudi Arabia. The developed framework represents a consensus on competencies for foundation level pharmacists working across all pharmacy sectors and is eligible for supporting further improvement of initial pharmacy education and support excellence in pharmacists' performance to address the country's needs from pharmaceutical services.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Salihah Alfaifi
- School of Pharmacy, University Park, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, United Kingdom; College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Stephanie Bridges
- School of Pharmacy, University Park, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, United Kingdom.
| | - Naoko Arakawa
- School of Pharmacy, University Park, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Alfaifi S, Arakawa N, Bridges S. The relevance of the International Pharmaceutical Federation Global Competency Framework in developing a country-level competency framework for pharmacists: A cross-sectional study. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2022; 5:100095. [PMID: 35478515 PMCID: PMC9030276 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2021.100095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
|
6
|
Hajj A, Hallit S, Sacre H, Akel M, Zeenny RM, Salameh P. Lebanese pharmacy core competencies framework: tool validation for self-declared assessment. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE 2021; 29:598-604. [PMID: 34562077 DOI: 10.1093/ijpp/riab055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Order of Pharmacists of Lebanon, the official pharmacists' association in Lebanon, had suggested a core competencies framework based on global and international frameworks and adapted to the local context. The objective of this study was to validate the structure of this comprehensive set of competencies in the Lebanese context of pharmacy practice. METHODS The framework structure was assessed through multiple factor analyses, correlational and reliability measures of self-declared assessment, based on a cross-sectional survey of practising pharmacists. KEY FINDINGS The framework had adequate structural validity and reliability: all measured coefficients were of appropriate magnitude. Behaviours adequately loaded on competencies, and competencies adequately loaded on domains and the entire framework. The exploratory factor analysis showed an adequate distribution of competencies in domains. Domains were also inter-correlated, without over-correlation. CONCLUSIONS Our results are an essential step towards standardizing pharmacy competencies in Lebanon and show that the Lebanese core competencies framework developed by the Order of Pharmacists of Lebanon is structurally valid and reliable, although not yet applied in the Lebanese educational system. This tool would be helpful to assess the minimum competencies of pharmacists upon and after graduation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aline Hajj
- Laboratoire de Pharmacologie, Pharmacie clinique et Contrôle de Qualité des Médicaments, Pôle Technologie-Santé, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon.,Faculty of Pharmacy, Saint-Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Souheil Hallit
- Health Professions Department, INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon.,Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK), Jounieh, Lebanon.,Research Department, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, Jal Eddib, Lebanon
| | - Hala Sacre
- Health Professions Department, INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Marwan Akel
- Health Professions Department, INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon.,School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rony M Zeenny
- Health Professions Department, INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon.,Department of Pharmacy, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Pascale Salameh
- Health Professions Department, INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon.,Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon.,Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia, Cyprus
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wong A, Hung KKC, Mabhala M, Tenney JW, Graham CA. Filling the Gaps in the Pharmacy Workforce in Post-Conflict Areas: Experience from Four Countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18158132. [PMID: 34360423 PMCID: PMC8346012 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18158132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background: While the pharmacy workforce is the third largest professional healthcare group worldwide, the pharmacy workforce landscape remains unclear in post-conflict areas in sub-Saharan Africa. Method: Key informants were selected for semi-structured interviews due to their role in providing pharmacy services in the selected country: the Central African Republic (CAR), the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Ethiopia, and South Sudan. Transcripts from the interviews were anonymized, coded, and analyzed. Results: Nine participants were recruited (CAR: 2; DRC: 2; Ethiopia: 2; South Sudan: 3), and all except two were pharmacists. Conflict-specific challenges in pharmacy service delivery were identified as the following: unpredictable health needs and/or mismatched pharmaceutical supply, transport difficulties due to insecure roads, and shortage of pharmacy workforce due to brain drain or interrupted schooling. Barriers to health workforce retention and growth were identified to be brain drain as a result of suboptimal living and working conditions or remuneration, the perception of an unsafe work environment, and a career pathway or commitment duration that does not fit the diaspora or expatriate staff. Conclusion: To tackle the barriers of pharmacy health workforce retention and growth, policy solutions will be required and efforts that can bring about long-term improvement should be prioritized. This is essential to achieve universal health coverage and the targets of the sustainable development goals for conflict affected areas, as well as to “leave no one behind”.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anabelle Wong
- The Institute of Public Health, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany;
- Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Kevin K. C. Hung
- Collaborating Centre for Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response (CCOUC), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China;
- Accident and Emergency Medicine Academic Unit, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Correspondence:
| | - Mzwandile Mabhala
- Department of Public Health and Wellbeing, University of Chester, Chester CH1 4BJ, UK;
| | - Justin W. Tenney
- School of Pharmacy, West Coast University, Los Angeles, CA 92617-3040, USA;
| | - Colin A. Graham
- Collaborating Centre for Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response (CCOUC), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China;
- Accident and Emergency Medicine Academic Unit, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Zeenny RM, Akel M, Hajj A, Sacre H, Hallit S, Salameh P. Descriptive assessment of graduates' perceptions of pharmacy-related competencies based on the Lebanese pharmacy core competencies framework. Pharm Pract (Granada) 2021; 19:2320. [PMID: 34221200 PMCID: PMC8234617 DOI: 10.18549/pharmpract.2021.2.2320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pharmacists possess a unique and complex body of knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviors necessary to enable them to optimize health outcomes. Pharmacy organizations publish routinely updated versions of professional competencies that help pharmacy schools integrate advances into their curricula. In Lebanon, no national framework for pharmacy education is officially adopted yet. In 2017, the Official Pharmacists' Association in Lebanon [OPL - Order of Pharmacists of Lebanon] took the initiative to develop a pharmacy core competency framework. Objective The primary objective of this survey was to evaluate graduates' perceptions of pharmacy-related competencies "taught" across Lebanese pharmacy schools/faculties, based on the suggested Lebanese Pharmacy Competencies Framework. This study also explored the association between graduates' demographics, university attributes, and self-assessed competency performance. Methods A cross-sectional study involving pharmacists who graduated from Lebanese universities was performed through a 40-minute online questionnaire distributed over social media platforms and groups of pharmacists. Results Pharmacists perceived their competence as moderate upon graduation, the lowest scores being in fundamental knowledge and medicine supply; the highest reported scores were in personal skills and safe/rational use of medicines. Moreover, females, younger graduates, PharmD holders, and pharmacists working in hospitals/clinical settings and academia had the highest perception of their competencies. Pharmacists in the public sector and medical laboratory directors had the lowest perception of competence. Conclusions When comparing the taught curriculum to the suggested Lebanese Pharmacy Competency Framework, all domains need to be improved to optimize the perception, education, and practice of pharmacists. It is essential to emphasize fundamental knowledge, medicines supply, and public health competencies in undergraduate curricula and improve continuing professional education.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rony M Zeenny
- PharmD. Department of Clinical Pharmacy, American University Beirut Medical Center. Beirut (Lebanon).
| | - Marwan Akel
- PharmD, PhD. School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University. Beirut (Lebanon).
| | - Aline Hajj
- PharmD, PhD. Laboratory of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacy and Quality Control of Drugs, Faculty of Pharmacy, Saint-Joseph University. Beirut (Lebanon).
| | - Hala Sacre
- PharmD. National Institute of Public Health, Clinical Epidemiology & Toxicology (INSPECT-LB). Beirut (Lebanon).
| | - Souheil Hallit
- PharmD, PhD. Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK). Jounieh (Lebanon).
| | - Pascale Salameh
- PharmD, PhD. Medical School, University of Nicosia. Nicosia (Cyprus).
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
The development, validity and applicability to practice of pharmacy-related competency frameworks: A systematic review. Res Social Adm Pharm 2021; 17:1697-1718. [PMID: 33640334 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2021.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Global reforms in the education of health workers has culminated in the implementation of competency-based education and training (CBET). In line with the CBET model, competency frameworks are now commonplace in the health professions. In pharmacy, these frameworks are used to regulate career entry, benchmark standards of practice and facilitate expertise development. OBJECTIVE This systematic review assessed the development, validity and applicability to practice of pharmacy-related competency frameworks. METHOD PubMed/Medline, CINAHL, Embase, ERIC, Scopus, ProQuest and PsycINFO electronic databases were searched to identify relevant literature. Additional searching included Google Scholar, electronic sources of grey literature, and the Member Organisation websites of the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP). The findings of this review were synthesised and reported narratively. The review protocol is registered on PROSPERO with reference number CRD42018096580. RESULTS In total, 53 pharmacy-related frameworks were identified. The majority (n = 38, 72%) were from high income countries in Europe and the Western Pacific region, with only three each from countries in South East Asia (SEA) and Africa. The identified frameworks were developed through a variety of methods that included expert group consultation used alone, or in combination with a literature review, job/role evaluation, or needs assessment. Profession wide surveys and consensus via a nominal group, Delphi, or modified Delphi technique were the primary methods used in framework validation. The competencies in the respective frameworks were generally ranked relevant to practice, thereby confirming validity and applicability. However, variations in competency-related terminologies and descriptors were observed. Disparities on perception of relevance also existed in relation to area of practice, length of experience, and level of competence. For example, pharmaceutical care competencies were typically ranked high in relevance in the frameworks, compared to others such as the research-related competencies. CONCLUSION The validity and applicability to practice of pharmacy-related frameworks highlights their importance in competency-based education and training (CBET). However, the observed disparities in framework terminologies and development methods suggest the need for harmonisation.
Collapse
|
10
|
Suwannaprom P, Suttajit S, Eakanunkul S, Supapaan T, Kessomboon N, Udomaksorn K, Sakulbumrungsil R. Development of pharmacy competency framework for the changing demands of Thailand's pharmaceutical and health services. Pharm Pract (Granada) 2020; 18:2141. [PMID: 33343773 PMCID: PMC7732214 DOI: 10.18549/pharmpract.2020.4.2141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In Thailand, pharmacists are responsible for all activities to ensure access to medicines throughout pharmaceutical supply chain. Competency framework (CF) is an important guidance for professional development and workforce planning. Objective This study aimed to explore needs for pharmacy services in pharmaceutical supply chain and competencies of pharmacists to serve those needs. It was the first step for developing evidence-based pharmacy CF within the context of Thailand in 2026. Methods A qualitative method using in-depth interviews to gain rich data from practitioners and leaders in all area of practices. 99 key informants from 56 workplaces in Thailand were interviewed during January and March 2016. Data was transcribed verbatim, and thematic analysis was used. Competencies were extracted, followed by several rounds of group discussion among team members to develop an initial framework. The competencies and CF were presented, and recommendations were gained from professional leaders for refining the findings. Results The key informants agreed that pharmacist's works and responsibilities have gradually been drifted to support changes in healthcare and pharmaceutical systems. The upcoming pharmaceutical services call for higher standards of practice, larger number of personnel, and skillful pharmacists who have strong foundation in pharmaceutical knowledge as well as an ability to integrate knowledge into practices. Two sets of CFs were established. The general CF comprises five core domains: product focus, patient focus, healthcare system focus, community focus, and personal focus for self-improvement. These general competencies allow practitioners to perform basic professional tasks, including providing information, dispensing, and compounding. The service-specific competency is the integration of general competencies tailored into specific area of practice. Conclusions Regarding the professional goal to evolve pharmacists from generalists to specialists for providing higher quality of professional services, the pharmacists are required to demonstrate general competencies and service-specific competencies. The findings serve as the need-based evidence for developing a national CF for pharmacists in Thailand.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Puckwipa Suwannaprom
- PhD. Assistant professor. Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University. Chiang Mai (Thailand).
| | - Siritree Suttajit
- PhD. Assistant professor. Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University. Chiang Mai (Thailand).
| | - Suntara Eakanunkul
- PhD. Assistant professor. Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University. Chiang Mai (Thailand).
| | - Teeraporn Supapaan
- PhD. Associate professor. Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ubon Ratchathani University. Ubon Ratchathani (Thailand).
| | - Nusaraporn Kessomboon
- PhD. Associate professor. Faculty of Pharmacy, Khon Kaen University. Khon Kaen (Thailand).
| | - Khunjira Udomaksorn
- PhD. Assistant professor. Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Prince of Songkla University. Songkhla (Thailand).
| | - Rungpetch Sakulbumrungsil
- PhD. Assistant professor. Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University. Bangkok (Thailand).
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Udoh A, Ernawati DK, Akpan M, Galbraith K, Bates I. Pharmacies and primary care: a global development framework. Bull World Health Organ 2020; 98:809-811. [PMID: 33177778 PMCID: PMC7607464 DOI: 10.2471/blt.19.248435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Arit Udoh
- School of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, England
| | | | - Mary Akpan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
| | - Kirsten Galbraith
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville 3052, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ian Bates
- University College London School of Pharmacy, UCL-FIP Collaborating Centre, London, England
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Al-Haqan A, Smith F, Bader L, Bates I. Competency development for pharmacy: Adopting and adapting the Global Competency Framework. Res Social Adm Pharm 2020; 17:771-785. [PMID: 32739247 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2020.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With current accelerated changes in the role of the pharmacists across different sectors, evidence-based developmental tools are needed to re-define the scope of practice for early career pharmacists (foundation level) and to support pharmacists' career development. This study aimed to develop a foundation competency framework for pharmacists in Kuwait using the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) Global Competency Framework (GbCF) in an adopt and adapt approach. METHODS A 4-phase adopt and adapt approach was followed to develop the Kuwait Foundation Competency Framework (KFCF). Phase one involved translating the FIP GbCF, into Arabic using parallel translation. Phase two utilises 2 consensus panels validation involving pharmacists from public and private sectors. Phase three involved a national survey to all registered pharmacists in Kuwait. The final phase involved focus groups with pharmacists and a consensus panel validation with key policy and decision makers in the pharmacy practice and education sectors in Kuwait. Qualitative data were thematically analysed, while quantitative data were analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows. RESULTS The translation phase yielded a bilingual framework that could be utilised by pharmacists in Kuwait. The initial validation phase identified 70 behavioural statements (out of the GbCF's 100) as 'highly relevant' or 'relevant' to pharmacy practice in Kuwait. Findings from the national survey identified a list of behaviours that could be adapted in Kuwait context as well as competencies that were perceived as least relevant to Kuwait practice. The final validation phase generated a list of 98 behavioural statements to be included in the KFCF along with recommendations and an action plan to facilitate the adaptation of the framework. CONCLUSION This study presents the first bilingual (Arabic/English) pharmacy foundation competency framework that builds on the FIP GbCF. The KFCF could be utilised as a developmental tool to support pharmacists' performance at foundation level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa Al-Haqan
- University College London, School of Pharmacy, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London, WC1 N 1AX, UK; Kuwait University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy Practice, Safat, Kuwait.
| | - Felicity Smith
- University College London, School of Pharmacy, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London, WC1 N 1AX, UK.
| | - Lina Bader
- International Pharmaceutical Federation, the Netherlands.
| | - Ian Bates
- University College London, School of Pharmacy, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London, WC1 N 1AX, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Rennie T, Nangombe V, Mangombe T, Kibuule D, Hunter CJ. Health workforce planning in Namibia: assessing a pilot workforce survey of pharmacists. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE 2019; 27:565-574. [DOI: 10.1111/ijpp.12547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Southern Africa lacks resources necessary to combat presenting health challenges. This crisis will likely be remedied through the in-country training of healthcare professionals, for example, in Namibia. Monitoring the workforce will be essential to inform planning in health services and training. A national pilot workforce survey in Namibia using a multi-modal sampling approach aimed to test methodology for describing the pharmacy workforce and quantifying preferences towards further training.
Methods
The survey tool included questions relating to socio-demographics, professional and practice aspects. A conjoint analysis approach was utilised to quantify preferences around study programme, modality of study and cost.
Key findings
Respondents (N = 135; ~20% response) represented a diverse range of individuals in various pharmacy sectors in Namibia. The majority of respondents reported female gender, private sector working, studying outside Namibia and societal group membership. Societal membership and pharmacy ownership – indicators of professional engagement – were associated with higher age; ownership was also associated with study outside Namibia and practice in community pharmacy. Regarding further study preferences, respondents placed more importance on study programme and modality over cost with the most preferred scenario being a 2-year full-time Masters programme in pharmaceutical industry/regulation by distance learning at the highest cost bracket.
Conclusions
This national survey sampled the population of pharmacists in Namibia exploring the composition of the profession and preferences towards training. Further work will validate the findings and provide ongoing monitoring of the pharmacy workforce that can be expanded to other professional groups over a larger geographical area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Rennie
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Vulika Nangombe
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Tafadzwa Mangombe
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Dan Kibuule
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Christian J Hunter
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| |
Collapse
|