A transition from the BPharm to the PharmD degree in five selected countries
Teeraporn Supapaan1, Bee Y Low2, Payom Wongpoowarak3
1Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ubon Ratchathani University. Ubon Ratchathani (Thailand). teeraporn.s@ubu.ac.th.
Pharmacy Practice
|October 9, 2019
Summary
The transition to the Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree globally aims to advance the pharmacy profession. Educational quality remains a key challenge, necessitating country-specific needs assessments for successful adoption.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacy Education
- International Pharmacy Practice
Background:
- The Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) to Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) transition is a global trend.
- This shift aims to enhance clinical orientation and professional development in pharmacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review studies and opinions on the BPharm to PharmD transition in the U.S., Japan, South Korea, Pakistan, and Thailand.
- To identify common challenges and country-specific considerations in adopting the PharmD program.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies and expert opinions.
- Comparative analysis of transition processes across selected countries.
Main Results:
- Countries implement varied transition processes, often involving regulatory body-mandated accreditation.
- Educational quality is a primary barrier, highlighting the need for robust quality indicators.
- Some nations offer diverse PharmD programs (clinical and pharmaceutical sciences) tailored to national needs.
Conclusions:
- Successful PharmD adoption requires critical assessment of national healthcare systems and pharmacy practice scope.
- Standardized indicators are needed to measure PharmD program impact and outcomes.
- Tailoring PharmD programs to country-specific contexts is crucial for maximizing benefits.
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