Transforming pharmacy education and practice in the Gulf Region: challenges, progress, and future vision

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Health Policy and Management
• Medical Education

Background:

• Pharmacy education and practice in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have evolved significantly due to changing healthcare needs and national development goals.
• There is an increasing demand for a skilled pharmacy workforce across GCC countries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of pharmacy education, postgraduate training, workforce trends, and practice models in the GCC region.
• To highlight specific challenges and opportunities in pharmacy practice and education within Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman.

Main Methods:

• This commentary synthesizes information on pharmacy education and practice across GCC nations.
• It reviews undergraduate and postgraduate training pathways, workforce dynamics, and current practice models.
• The analysis focuses on key countries including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman.

Main Results:

• Undergraduate pharmacy education has expanded, with a notable shift towards Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) programs.
• Postgraduate training opportunities (residencies, fellowships) are unevenly distributed across the region.
• Clinical pharmacy in hospitals is established, but community pharmacy services are often limited to dispensing and minor ailment management.
• Research engagement is growing but faces administrative hurdles and a lack of clear research career paths.

Conclusions:

• Despite advancements in pharmacy education, challenges persist in developing pharmacists equipped for complex healthcare systems.
• There is a need to enhance postgraduate training accessibility and establish robust career pathways for pharmacy research.
• Further development is required to broaden the scope of community pharmacy practice beyond traditional dispensing roles.