Pharmacogenomic curriculum in Australian medical schools: a content analysis study

To ascertain and describe pharmacogenomic concepts included in the intended curriculum of accredited Australian medical schools.

Content analysis of curriculum learning objectives of Australian medical schools was conducted, focusing on keywords and phrases pertaining to pharmacogenomic education. Learning objectives related to pharmacogenomics were categorized using (1) undergraduate medical genomic competencies per the Association of Professors in Human and Medical Genetics (2) Bloom's Taxonomy for cognitive and knowledge dimensions and (3) knowledge translation (enabling science, translation science and clinical implementation).

The curricula of 19 accredited medical schools in Australia were analyzed. Two-thirds (68%) contained genomic/pharmacogenomic education. Eight schools had content relating to undergraduate medical genomic competencies. Of those which had pharmacogenomic-related learning objectives, the majority (65%) were categorized in Bloom's Taxonomy's lower levels (Remember and Understand) and 15% were deemed to be at the level of 'Clinical Implementation.'

The majority of Australian medical schools have incorporated pharmacogenomics in their current curriculum; however, learning objectives addressing application and clinical implementation are required. Doctors have a unique role to play in implementing pharmacogenomics into clinical practice. Comprehensiveness of course curricula across all learning domains would support uptake of pharmacogenomics into routine practice.