Advancing a global pharmacy support workforce through a global strategic platform

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Practice
• Global Health Workforce Development

Background:

• The pharmacy support workforce (PSW) is a vital mid-level cadre assisting pharmacists globally.
• Significant international variation exists in PSW education, regulation, and scope of practice.
• A competent PSW is essential for pharmacists to expand their clinical roles and improve patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the global inconsistencies in the pharmacy support workforce (PSW).
• To emphasize the need for a standardized and recognized PSW to support pharmacists' advanced roles.
• To discuss the role of international collaboration in developing the PSW.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of global variations in pharmacy support workforce (PSW) roles, education, and regulation.
• Review of initiatives by organizations like the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) to address PSW development.
• Identification of critical factors for PSW advancement.

Main Results:

• Global PSW landscape shows extensive variation, hindering consistent development.
• Lack of standardized education, regulation, and defined roles impedes PSW effectiveness.
• The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) is actively working towards global PSW standardization.

Conclusions:

• Standardized education, legislative frameworks, and clear role definitions are critical for PSW advancement.
• Global collaboration is necessary to ensure a competent PSW, enabling pharmacists to fulfill advanced patient care provider roles.
• Developing the PSW is key to addressing pharmacy workforce shortages and enhancing pharmaceutical services worldwide.