Abstract
In order to keep pharmacy education relevant to a rapidly-evolving future, this study sought to identify key insights from leaders from a broad array of pharmacy and non-pharmacy industries on the future of the pharmacy profession, pharmaceutical sciences, and pharmacy education. Thought leaders representing a variety of industries were surveyed regarding their perspectives on the future of pharmacy practice, pharmaceutical science disciplines, and pharmacy education in seven domains. From 46 completed surveys, top challenges/threats were barriers that limit clinical practice opportunities, excessive supply of pharmacists, and high drug costs. Major changes in the drug distribution system, automation/robotics, and new therapeutic approaches were identified as the top technological disrupters. Key drivers of pharmacy education included the primary care provider shortage, growing use of technology and data, and rising drug costs. The most significant sources of job growth outside of retail and hospital settings were managed care organizations, technology/biotech/pharmaceutical companies, and ambulatory care practices. Needs in the industry included clinical management of complex patients, leadership and management, pharmaceutical scientists, and implementation science. Knowledge gaps were pharmacists not recognizing their value on the health care team, preparation to embrace and lead change, and expertise in data science and analytics. Pharmacy schools will need to address several disruptive trends to future-proof their curricula, including expanding patient management skills, leadership and management training, technology, and data analytics.
Highlights
The U.S healthcare system has changed dramatically over the past two decades, driven by the highest per capita cost while delivering the lowest quality of care among peer countries [1]
Several of the top groundbreaking innovations or technologies identified that could disrupt pharmacy practice and the pharmaceutical industry in the 10 to 20 years centered on artificial intelligence, data analytics, and technology-enhanced patient care management
By soliciting perspectives from a broad group of stakeholders, with more than a dozen from industries and expertise outside of pharmacy, we were able to gain insights that can inform the design of pharmacy school educational strategies
Summary
The U.S healthcare system has changed dramatically over the past two decades, driven by the highest per capita cost while delivering the lowest quality of care among peer countries [1]. The rapid pace of change challenges health profession schools with ensuring their curriculum is relevant to current demands while preparing graduates for developing needs and opportunities. Current growth projections for pharmacy jobs between 2016 and 2026 is 5.6%, which is 25% lower than the projected national employment growth of 7.4% [3]. According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth for pharmacists from 2018 to 2028 is projected to be 0%, with a national employment growth average of 5% [4]. These projections suggest a misalignment between how pharmacy schools are preparing graduates and market needs/demand
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