Competency-based education in pharmacy- Challenges, opportunities, and the path forward.

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Education
• Competency-Based Education (CBE)
• Healthcare Workforce Development

Background:

• Current pharmacy competency frameworks prioritize foundational knowledge but lack structured specialization pathways.
• The evolving healthcare landscape necessitates adaptable skills beyond traditional clinical expertise.
• Existing models often result in an "I-shaped" skill set, limiting interdisciplinary breadth.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for a paradigm shift in pharmacy education towards a "comb-shaped" competency model.
• To propose integrating customizable modules for advanced specialization and lifelong learning.
• To enhance pharmacy graduates' adaptability for diverse and emerging professional roles.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of existing competency frameworks, including the ACCA and CBD models.
• Proposal of a modular and flexible curriculum structure.
• Outline of a structured approach for curriculum designers to implement adaptive frameworks.

Main Results:

• A "comb-shaped" model fosters broader, interdisciplinary competencies alongside specialized skills.
• Modular curricula support lifelong learning, global mobility, and adaptability.
• Enhanced specialization opportunities can be balanced with fundamental professional standards.

Conclusions:

• Pharmacy education requires a transition to a modular, competency-driven "comb-shaped" model.
• This approach better prepares graduates for diverse careers in research, industry, regulatory affairs, digital health, and clinical practice.
• Adapting curricula ensures the continued relevance and responsiveness of pharmacy education in a dynamic healthcare environment.