Assessment of Views Opinions and Perceptions of Pharmacy Students towards Doctor of Pharmacy Profession in India

Abstract

Background: Although clinical pharmacy is considered as one of the most vibrant and exigent professions, when it comes to the recognition, scope and the career opportunities for Pharm D professionals are ill-defined in the current scenario of Indian Pharmacy. The SPICE-PHARM study (Suggestions, Perceptions and Ideas for Comprehensive Education system towards Pharmacy profession) primarily aims at the various views, opinions and perceptions of Pharm D students in order to enhance the standards with respect to the recognition and address future career opportunities in particular to Indian context. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted by using a semistructured, pre-tested self-administered questionnaire which was validated through a pilot study conducted with 20 respondents prior to the full-fledged study. Survey was conducted at various educational institutions of India primarily using google document forms over a period of six months. The responses were collected and analyzed by using descriptive statistics. Results: By analysing the survey results, majority of the participants has showed desire for the specific issues that needs to be addressed. Also, results clearly represents that there is an absolute need for enhancing the standards with regards to the respect, identity and cadre towards the Pharm D profession in India. Conclusion: Our survey emphasized on the views, opinions and perceptions with regards to Pharm D profession in India. In a nutshell, survey result concludes that there is an immense need for development in the educational and professional standards of Doctor of Pharmacy in India.