Value and Competencies of Teacher-Practitioners of Pharmaceutical Care in Hospitals for Clinical Pharmacy Teaching in Thailand

Abstract

Objective: To describe value and competencies of teacher-practitioners of pharmaceutical care (TPPC) in Thailand. Methods: The study was a phenomenological qualitative study. The researcher conducted in-depth interview in 27 informants including TPPCs, others involving in various dimensions of the work of TPPCs, and board members of Thai Pharmacy Council. The researcher also observed two TPPCs in their work. The data were analyzed through the lens of McClelland’s Iceberg Model of Competencies. Results: TPPCs were indispensable for Thai pharmacy education. Recognized values of TPPCs in Thailand stemmed from their performance in working with other health professionals in hospitals to provide patient cares and their teaching of pharmacy students. TPPCs were officially established later as one of the important components in pharmacy education by Thai Pharmacy Council. However, the context of their work, especially at the administrative level, had not adequately supported the development of their roles. The desirable competencies of TPPCs in professional work included knowledge and skills as specialists in drug use (at the higher level than those possessed by general hospital pharmacists), ability to integrate and apply knowledge in pharmaceutical care to the specific context of a particular patient, and training other health professionals on drug related issues. The desirable competencies of TPPCs in teaching and learning were abilities for bedside teaching in hospital and experience-based teaching in classroom. TPPCs could better perform their roles if they possessed the following attributes; hard working, life-long learning, self-concept of passion in patient cares and belief in usefulness of their work, and having a qualification in board certified in pharmacotherapy. Conclusion: The values of TPPCs in Thailand have been well recognized. The competencies of TPPCs still need clear support at the policy level in order to foster the confidence on the parts of affiliated faculties of pharmaceutical sciences and hospitals which are teaching sites. The results of this study could serve as an input for planning to ensure sustainability of TPPCs in the future.