Abstract
Background: The PHAR-QA, “Quality Assurance in European Pharmacy Education and Training”, project has produced the European Pharmacy Competence Framework (EPCF). The aim of this study was to evaluate the existing pharmacy programme at the University of Tartu, using the EPCF. Methods: A qualitative assessment of the pharmacy programme by a convenience sample (n = 14) representing different pharmacy stakeholders in Estonia. EPCF competency levels were determined by using a five-point scale tool adopted from the Dutch competency standards framework. Mean scores of competency levels given by academia and other pharmacy stakeholders were compared. Results: Medical and social sciences, pharmaceutical technology, and pharmacy internship were more frequent subject areas contributing to EPCF competencies. In almost all domains, the competency level was seen higher by academia than by other pharmacy stakeholders. Despite on-board theoretical knowledge, the competency level at graduation could be insufficient for independent professional practice. Other pharmacy stakeholders would improve practical implementation of theoretical knowledge, especially to increase patient care competencies. Conclusions: The EPCF was utilized to evaluate professional competencies of entry-level pharmacists who have completed a traditional pharmacy curriculum. More efficient training methods and involvement of practicing specialists were suggested to reduce the gaps of the existing pharmacy programme. Applicability of competence teaching in Estonia requires more research and collaborative communication within the pharmacy sector.
Highlights
IntroductionThe Faculty of Medicine at the University of Tartu (UT), Estonia, provides higher education and several PhD programmes in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, sport sciences, and physiotherapy [1]
European Pharmacy Competence Framework (EPCF) personal competences were mostly covered by the full programme with emphasis on some subject areas
The EPCF patient care competences were supported by specific subject areas or specific subjects, and the number of subjects covering these competences increased with study years
Summary
The Faculty of Medicine at the University of Tartu (UT), Estonia, provides higher education and several PhD programmes in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, sport sciences, and physiotherapy [1]. 1.2 Second course compulsory subjects (52 ECTS) ARFA.02.108 ARBK.01.042 ARMB.01.053 ARMP.01.030. 2.2 Second course elective subjects (5 ECTS) ARBK.01.021 ARMP.03.019. The PHAR-QA, “Quality Assurance in European Pharmacy Education and Training”, project has produced the European Pharmacy Competence Framework (EPCF). The aim of this study was to evaluate the existing pharmacy programme at the University of Tartu, using the EPCF. Methods: A qualitative assessment of the pharmacy programme by a convenience sample (n = 14) representing different pharmacy stakeholders in Estonia. Results: Medical and social sciences, pharmaceutical technology, and pharmacy internship were more frequent subject areas contributing to EPCF competencies
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