Update on factors motivating pharmacy students to pursue residency and fellowship training

Abstract

Abstract Purpose The factors motivating pharmacy students to pursue residency and fellowship training in 2011 versus 1993 were assessed. Methods A survey replicating previous research was electronically sent to 794 residency directors and 29 fellowship program directors with a request to forward the survey to current residents and fellows. A similar survey was sent to 124 colleges of pharmacy with a request to forward the survey to the faculty member most involved with residency and fellowship promotion within their doctor of pharmacy (Pharm.D.) curriculum. Participants were asked to rank leading motivating factors and barriers to pharmacy students pursuing these programs. Additional data collected included when and the methods by which these programs are promoted. Results Among residents and fellows, 865 usable surveys were returned. The leading motivating reasons for residents and fellows to pursue training were “to gain knowledge and experience,” “to gain confidence,” and “understood as a prerequisite for certain jobs.” A total of 124 U.S. pharmacy schools were surveyed, and 65 (52%) returned completed responses. “Understood as a prerequisite for certain jobs,” “faculty stressing importance,” and “recognition of the new and challenging roles for pharmacists in the future” were the factors most frequently cited by faculty members. Conclusion Compared with previous research, a new factor motivating pharmacy students to pursue residency and fellowship training is the consideration that these opportunities are a prerequisite for certain jobs. This development may be attributable to trends in the supply and demand of pharmacists, the recognition of the value in these programs by major pharmacy organizations, and the evolving role of pharmacists in direct patient care.