Assessing the extent and need for disability inclusion in the pharmacy education curriculum in Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Disability is a prevalent problem in Africa, particularly in Nigeria. The impairment in physical abilities such as hearing, visual, etc. necessitates the need for a specialised approach in the treatment of persons with disabilities by healthcare professionals, including pharmacists. Pharmacists play a central role in the healthcare system among other health professionals because they are usually the first point-of-contact of patients and also play a key role in community surveillance. Aim: In a bid to achieve disability inclusion in Nigeria, it is thus necessary to equip pharmacists with the necessary skills in the care of patients with disabilities, whether intellectual or physical. Method: In this paper, the minimum academic benchmark for awarding the Bachelor of Pharmacy degree (which is the minimum degree that allows one to practice) is well-reviewed and analysed for the presence of any content related to persons with disabilities. Conclusion: Preparing future pharmacists through the pharmacy education curriculum is a useful way to improve the attitude and skills of pharmacy students in the pharmaceutical care of patients with disabilities.