Benefits of certification for pharmacy specialists.

Abstract

The objective of the study was to measure the tangible and intangible benefits of certification by the Board of Pharmaceutical Specialties (BPS). All BPS-certified pharmacists (n = .733) were mailed a survey in October 1933. The response rate was 65.5% (n = 480). Approximately 8% of respondents reported a promotion, 16% reported a bonus, and 10% reported a raise as a direct result of certification. Respondents were asked to indicate their level of agreement with statements concerning benefits they had experienced as a result of certification. The highest level of agreement about perceived benefits had to do with greater self-worth, improved competence, and greater marketability. The lowest agreement about perceived benefits was related to monetary compensation. This article compares responses by pharmacists in three specialties and who hold two types of degrees.