Longitudinal Exploration of Strategies Advancing Continuing Professional Pharmacy Education in a Major University: an in- Depth Study on Impact

Abstract

Background: In the dynamic healthcare landscape, pharmacists contend with the challenge of staying current with evolving knowledge. Continuing Pharmacy Education (CPE) programs, play a pivotal role in addressing this need. This study focuses on a six-year evaluation of CPE programs at a College of Pharmacy, aiming to assess the impact of a multifaceted approach on various educational outcomes. Materials and Methods: The University College of Pharmacy Office of Continuing Professional Education implemented a multifaceted approach from 2017 to 2022. Changes included hiring a full-time coordinator, offering on-site and online programs, establishing partnerships, identifying knowledge gap through surveying participants, and enhancing digital presence beyond others. Data from this period were compared with the preceding six years (2010 2016). Evaluation metrics covered attendee the number and diversity, program growth, and professional impact. Results: The study showcased significant improvements in various aspects of CPE programs. Pharmacist attendees increased by 816.67%, with a notable rise in non-pharmacy participants. Geographical distribution saw a surge in out-of-state and international participants. Program content witnesseda shift towardsinfectious diseases and pain management. The number of CPE programsand awarded hours experienced a fivefold increase, reflecting a commitment to a diverse curriculum. Participant feedback consistently indicated high satisfaction with knowledge enhancement, applicability, and program usefulness. Conclusion: Over the six-year period,the evaluation revealedsubstantial advancements in our CPE programs. Increased pharmacist attendance, diversified participant engagement, and expandedgeographical reach underscored the program's success.The exponential growth in program offerings reflected a commitment to diverse and extensive education. Positive participant feedback, indicating sustained impact on drug therapy management, patient safety, and public health outcomes, affirmedthe enduring effectiveness of the CPE programs. While acknowledging study limitations, this comprehensive analysis highlights the success and ongoing efforts to enhance CPE programs at major university. Future research should address these constraints for a more nuanced understanding of CPE program impact.