EVALUATION OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE PHARMACEUTICAL WORKPLACE: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY IN LEBANON

Abstract

The objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of Continuous Professional Development in the pharmaceutical workplace and the direct impact on the pharmacists’ personal and professional progression and to assess their perceptions toward various CPD methods and their incorporation into this recent learning pathway. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in Lebanon within three months from July 2017 till September 2017 using a survey as a tool. Overall 142 participants were conveniently selected frequency matching national government estimates of pharmacists’ work location and gender . Results: Among the respondents, 38.7% reported that they have learnt through CD/DVD, 57.7% pharmacists attended a conference and 43.7% reported that they took advantage of the E-learning modules provided by the Order of pharmacists in Lebanon. An improvement in practical skills (64.1%) and knowledge acquisition were outlined. The majority considered that the programs modules should be provided and audited by colleges. Conclusion: Understanding the pharmacists’ needs help in providing structured modules to enhance the pharmacy practice and encouraging the incorporation of pharmacists from different areas of work by having multiple options of CPD.