Publications

Background: Pharmacy education in India is undergoing a shift towards a more clinically oriented approach with the introduction of the Pharm D program. This doctoral-level program focuses on clinical training, pharmacotherapy optimization, patient counseling, and interprofessional collaboration. Aims/ Objectives: The study aimed to identify the present role of Pharm D graduates in the Indian healthcare system and explore the prospects and challenges perceived by hospital administrators regarding their employment. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted using structured questionnaires administered to a sample of 100 Pharm D graduates and 30 hospital administrators. Results: This survey involving 100 Pharm D graduates in India found that 84% are employed as clinical pharmacists, with 60% contributing to pharmacy policy formulation and the training of healthcare professionals. However, 52% agreed that the public sector has yet to fully open its doors to these professionals, and that opportunities in pharmaceutical research remains limited. Hospital administrators acknowledge the positive impact of Pharm D professionals on patient care and the reduction of medication errors, but also expressed concerns about the lack of hospital policies to support their integration into the healthcare system. Conclusion: Pharm D professionals play a crucial role in the private healthcare sector, contributing to patient counselling, monitoring pharmacotherapy, adverse drug reaction reporting, training of clinical staff in medication management, and the promotion of evidence-based practices. However, sixteen years after the introduction of the Pharm D program by the Government of India, challenges regarding their employment in the public sector remain unresolved. Addressing these issues is essential to fully leverage the potential of PharmDs in improving the quality of healthcare delivery.