Geriatric content in pharmacotherapy and therapeutics textbooks

The current state of geriatric pharmacy education in the United States - A cross-sectional survey

INTRODUCTION

Concerns exist that the current health care workforce is underprepared to meet the needs of the aging American population. This study evaluated the current emphasis on geriatrics in doctor of pharmacy curricula.

METHODS

A 61-item web-based survey was distributed to associate deans with oversight of pharmacy curricula at all United States (US) schools and colleges of pharmacy (S/COP). Information collected included school demographics, employment of geriatrics faculty, geriatric education (required, elective, and experiential courses), co-curricular geriatric experiences, postgraduate residency training in geriatrics, student interest in geriatrics, and perception of preparedness of the profession to care for older adults.

RESULTS

Of responding S/COP, 35% required a course in geriatrics while 63% offered a geriatrics elective. An advanced pharmacy practice experience (APPE) in geriatrics was required by 14%, and 79% offered an elective APPE. Insufficient curricular emphasis on geriatrics was noted by 44% of responding schools, and 33% lacked confidence that the profession of pharmacy is adequately prepared to care for the aging population.

CONCLUSIONS

According to the survey respondents, most pharmacy schools do not have a required didactic course or APPE in geriatrics. Additional emphasis on foundational principles of medication management for older adults in pharmacy curricula is warranted to meet the health care needs of the rapidly aging US population.

Geriatric pharmacy education: a strategic plan for the future

The aging of the US population will have a major effect on the future practice of pharmacy. By 2030, 20% of Americans will be aged 65 years and older, an increase from 12.4% in 2000. A challenge to colleges and schools of pharmacy in the 21st century is to prepare students and practitioners to meet the growing pharmaceutical care needs of the older adult population and to meet these needs in a variety of care settings. This paper reviews the present state of geriatric pharmacy education and training, including strategies for ensuring that practicing pharmacists will have adequate knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values to provide this care. Secondly, this report provides strategic directions and recommendations for successfully implementing geriatrics curricula at an institutional level.