Three Methods for Effectively Training the Next Generation of Pharmacy Leaders

Training the next generation of health care leaders is crucial for the future of pharmacy, which is an ever-changing and ever-expanding field. Pharmacists are an important facet of health care leadership and, to develop the next generation of pharmacy leaders, these professionals require training from the beginning of their careers. To support this need, there are a few methods of training available.

1. Robust Induction Program

Induction programs are important for pharmacists because they provide knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to effectively handle the challenges they will experience. These programs usually include training in pharmacokinetics, drug dosages, medication administration, and pharmacotherapy. They also provide opportunities to learn about patient safety, customer service, and ethical practices.

Robust induction programs help pharmacists integrate with the pharmacy team, improve patient outcomes, and be confident and competent in their role as a pharmacist. Pharmacies are increasingly investing in digital health technologies to expand access to health care services. It is vital that the next generation of pharmacists are effectively trained in these areas.

2. Continuous Professional Development

Continuing professional development (CPD) is essential for training pharmacists because CPD provides opportunities for pharmacists to update their knowledge and skills, maintain current licenses and qualifications, and demonstrate their commitment to the profession. Pharmacists must be continuously educated and trained to ensure they are aware of the latest advances in pharmaceuticals and health care services. CPDs can include workshops, seminars, conferences, online courses, and training programs. These programs enable pharmacists to stay up to date with changes in regulations, treatments, and techniques, allowing them to provide safe and effective patient care. Moreover, CPDs also helps pharmacists to adapt to new technologies and drugs in the health care industry.

Pharmacists must be continuously educated and trained to ensure they are aware of the latest advances in pharmaceuticals and health care services. Image Credit: © Mediteraneo - stock.adobe.com

3. Interdisciplinary Training and Collaboration

Health care is a complex field which greatly benefits from the presence of leaders who can collaborate across disciplines and specialities. Shadowing professionals from other disciplines and specialities is a great opportunity to gain a clear view of the patient experience from start to finish, making pharmacists who complete this training more likely to provide a patient-centered approach and holistic care to their patients.

Shadowing can be part of a mentorship program, allowing experienced practitioners to share their knowledge and skills and pass it down to the next generation of emerging professionals. Shadowing can also help pharmacists gain insights into the challenges faced by other health care practitioners and understand the broader health care landscape, which may help enhance communication and referrals. By fostering learning environments where pharmacists can engage with and learn from other health care practitioners, pharmacists can become more rounded professionals and provide better guidance to patients.

In addition to these methods, it’s essential to integrate ethical and patient-centered care into the training process, instilling the values and principles needed for the next generation of pharmacists to lead effectively and make a positive contribution to the industry. Pharmacists should be prepared to adapt and remain knowledgeable about the latest advances to provide the best possible care to their patients.

About the Author

Paaven Patel is an operations and quality assurance pharmacist at Specialist Pharmacy. Specialist Pharmacy is the first compounding pharmacy of its kind in the United Kingdom, producing custom-made medications across a wide range of treatment areas such as bioidentical hormones, pain management, dermatology, haircare, sports medicine, and veterinary medications.