A Genetics-Focused Lens on Social Constructs in Pharmacy Education

Area of Science:

• Health Professions Education
• Social Determinants of Health
• Pharmacogenomics

Background:

• Diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism are crucial in pharmacy education.
• Race is a social construct, not biological, yet influences medical diagnoses and treatment.
• Current educational practices may perpetuate health inequities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the negative impact of using race in health education on clinical decision-making.
• To propose best practices for integrating diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism into health education.
• To leverage pharmacogenomics for a more equitable approach to health education.

Main Methods:

• This study is a review of current literature and practices.
• It analyzes the role of social constructs in health.
• It explores the application of pharmacogenomics in addressing these issues.

Main Results:

• Using race in health education can result in suboptimal clinical decisions.
• Pharmacogenomics offers a framework to deconstruct race as a social determinant of health.
• Integrating DEI and anti-racism principles is essential for equitable pharmacy practice.

Conclusions:

• Rethinking the use of race in health education is necessary.
• Pharmacogenomics can guide the development of more equitable educational strategies.
• Adopting an anti-racist, inclusive approach in pharmacy education is vital for improving patient care.