Using a global systematic framework tool to guide the advancement of the pharmacy workforce education and training on a national level.

Abstract

Systematic education and training strategies play a critical role in preparing a competent pharmacy workforce to meet the evolving healthcare needs of nations. Reports have shown that investing in healthcare workers' education and training not only has a positive impact on employment rates and economic growth but also results in measurable improvement in health and population outcomes. The goal of this study was to evaluate the use of globally validated workforce goals as a guide to the planning and advancement of the Kuwait pharmacy workforce's education and training. A mixed-approach qualitative study involving representatives of key stakeholders was conducted. Focus group interviews were carried out with pharmacists with patient and non-patient facing roles (N=33). In addition, semi-structured interviews with the three main pharmacy Continuing Professional Development (CPD) providers in the country were conducted. Data were analysed using a framework analysis method. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and data were analysed and coded using MAXQDA-12. The International Pharmaceutical Federation Workforce Development Goals (FIP WDGs) were used as the framework for data analysis. Participants' responses highlighted three main priorities: the importance of initial and post-graduation needs-based education (WDG 2), the need for competency development and competency frameworks (WDG 5), and the crucial role of active policy and regulations that would enforce the profession development (WDG 9). Investing in competency development was seen the top priority for the pharmacy workforce in Kuwait. This study provided insights into areas in need of systematic development for pharmacy workforce in Kuwait including foundation training for early career pharmacists, competency development and competency frameworks, and policies and regulations that would enforce the profession development. In addition, the use of the FIP WDGs framework was found to offer a framing device to better understand and identify priorities and needs for pharmacy workforce development.