The Human Genome Project: Assessing Confidence in Knowledge and Training Requirements for Community Pharmacists

Objectives. This study evaluated community pharmacists’ confidence in their knowledge regarding the advances in the human genome project (HGP) and determined their requirements for education and training on this subject. Methods. A survey was administered to community pharmacists (N=377) working in the Houston Metropolitan Area using a convenient sampling process. Results. In general, respondents indicated that their confidence in knowledge regarding the HGP, genetic testing, and pharmacogenomics was less than 50%. Overall, pharmacists believe that they should receive training on the proper handling of drugs developed from the advances in the HGP. In addition, they agreed that pharmacists should be required to take at least 2 CE credits on human genetics and that pharmacy schools should include information regarding the advances in the HGP in their curriculum. Conclusions. Pharmacist should be educated in the advances of the HGP and the implications of such advances on their professional responsibilities. Colleges of pharmacy across the nation should explore ways to incorporate information regarding the HGP in their curriculums. Furthermore, opportunities to provide continuing education (CE) credits should be explored by various pharmacy organizations.