A qualitative study on the beliefs and perceptions of inaugural PharmD program graduates

There is an increasing need for pharmacists to incorporate more patient care targeting. Consequently, the productivity of pharmacy programs can be enhanced by evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of pharmacy curriculum. To assess the beliefs, perceptions, and challenges of the College of Pharmacy –The University of Baghdad PharmD graduates regarding the PharmD program. Qualitative research methodology was implemented. Graduate PharmD candidates were interviewed either in-person or via telephone. The interviews were conducted in a semi-structured format, utilizing a predetermined interview guide that included open-ended questions. Thematic analysis was implemented to analyze the data. A total of 21 in-depth interviews were conducted. The participants commonly expressed that the program significantly enhances their clinical proficiency, particularly in hospital settings. Valuable clinical skills were acquired through college scientific activities during courses. The participants advocated for the implementation of more scientific activities to enhance the quality of education and endorsed the use of OSCE exam methodologies for all final exams. Their clinical abilities were enhanced by the hospital training course they completed during their senior year. Their clinical knowledge is enhanced through daily interaction with clinical pharmacists. The primary method of enhancing hospital training is through the development of trainer skills. The primary obstacles include the difficulty of the test, the distribution of subjects irregularly, and the intensive summer lectures. The PharmD program effectively prepared the graduate pharmacist for future employment in community pharmacies or hospitals by enhancing their clinical practice abilities. Nevertheless, there is a necessity to enhance the course by reducing the number of non-clinical subjects, enhancing the trainer's training capabilities, and increasing the variety of scientific activities.