Peripartum mental health education in Canadian pharmacy curricula

Peripartum mental health conditions are common in Canada, yet many women lack proper support. Pharmacists represent a potentially underused resource for these patients, but it is unclear whether Canadian PharmD programs adequately train future pharmacists to address this need. This study aimed to assess peripartum mental health instruction in Canadian PharmD programs.

A national cross-sectional survey was conducted during November 2023 to August 2024. It was distributed via email by members of the Association of Faculties of Pharmacy of Canada to a representative from each pharmacy school. The survey included 34 questions covering curriculum, course status, content, and instructional methodology. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

The survey response rate was 60% (6/10 schools). Respondents agreed that pharmacists can play a critical role in supporting peripartum patients with mental illness. While most schools included topics such as peripartum depression and anxiety, many felt that peripartum mental health content was insufficiently covered. Most schools dedicated 1-3 hours to this topic, primarily through lectures. Two schools included laboratory components, such as simulated patient interviews. No school had a standalone course on peripartum mental health care. Respondents expressed difficulty fitting this content into an overloaded curriculum. Topics considered essential were appropriate therapy selection, patient-centred communication, and peripartum depression.

This survey highlights that while peripartum mental health is recognized as a potentially important area of pharmacy practice, its coverage in Canadian PharmD programs is limited. Future research should clarify the opportunities for pharmacists in peripartum mental health care and their related educational needs.