Developing pharmacists as researchers: the experience in the United States of America

Health-care interest-holders in the United States of America are increasingly calling for the delivery of value-based care rooted in evidence-based practices. This requires that pharmacists have a strong understanding of the research process, including knowing how to apply and communicate published research findings to support patient-care decisions. The focus of pharmacy education, training, and practice necessarily has been on clinical knowledge and skills, and application of evidence in practice. In the current environment, pharmacists are taught to be research evidence consumers, with less emphasis on being research evidence producers. Many individuals and groups have documented the importance of pharmacists' engagement in research. However, research is not a common activity in most non-academic or non-industry pharmacy positions, regardless of practice setting. A number of efforts have been described to enhance the involvement of pharmacists holding the entry-level professional degree (PharmD) in the research process. While not necessarily leading the effort, practicing pharmacists frequently participate in clinical and outcomes research. Although the 'clinician researcher' conceptualized as an independent researcher should continue to be advanced, broader pharmacist participation in the research process, along with recognition of these contributions, should also be a priority. Engagement in research can help develop and sustain advanced pharmacy practices and support the delivery of value-based patient care. After a brief overview of demographics and the economic and health environments, this paper reviews pharmacy education and practice and examines opportunities to expand research training for pharmacists in the United States of America.