New tools for culturally appropriate training, to develop competency in Pacific Island Countries in pharmaceutical healthcare service delivery

Abstract

Background Limited human resources have been identified as a major impediment to achieving the health-related Millennium Development Goals in many Pacific Island Countries (PICs). It is recognised that many maternal and child health-related deaths in PICs may be prevented with readily available essential medicines provided by suitably trained health personnel. Aim This thesis aims to determine the competencies required by health personnel in the area of essential medicine supply management (EMSM) in Pacific Island Countries. Additionally, it develops new understandings of the pedagogical approaches required for culturally appropriate training and education of primary healthcare personnel. Method The International Pharmaceutical Federation Pharmacy Education Taskforce (FIP-PET) needs based model for education was applied to Pacific Island Countries using five participatory action research cycles. These cycles engaged health personnel, Ministry of Health officials and academics of the region to reveal contextualised results. Results Through engagement with PIC stakeholders, this research reveals significant new knowledge that can be applied to the local context. Specifically, this research has: · exposed previously unstated limitations of the FIP needs-based model and proposed actionable strategies to advance this model · articulated 20 cultural and learning principles to guide the development of pharmaceutical curriculum in PICs · validated the first service-based Pharmacy Competency Framework for PICs · validated the first Essential Medicines Competency Framework for Primary Healthcare Personnel in PICs · developed and trialled a novel five-day, competency-based, interactive workshop to ensure EMSM competency development for primary healthcare personnel in PICs. Conclusion This thesis by published works reveals new knowledge on how to improve training and education for health personnel who provide essential medicines to Pacific Island Countries. Without improved provision of these medicines, the health of the population in these countries will continue to decline. The innovative application of the FIP-PET needs-based model in a way that is systematic and culturally appropriate is at the heart of this innovative research.

Date of Award	2012
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Canberra
Supervisor	Gabrielle Cooper (Supervisor), Coralie McCormack (Supervisor) & Nerida Smith (Supervisor)