Assessing the evidence based medicine educational needs of community pharmacy preceptors within an experiential program in Qatar.

INTRODUCTION: Observations have shown a lack of evidence-based medicine (EBM) knowledge and skills among community pharmacy preceptors in Qatar. These skills are important when delivering evidence-based recommendations to healthcare providers and patients. The aim of this study was to explore the community pharmacy preceptors' knowledge and understanding of EBM and to identify challenges in applying this approach to community practice.

METHODS: A survey instrument was developed to assess the knowledge of community pharmacy preceptors related to EBM. Knowledge-based questions were mapped according to National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities professional competencies for practicing pharmacists. The survey tool was administered to community pharmacy preceptors involved in mentoring Qatar University College of Pharmacy students.

RESULTS: Twenty-six community pharmacy preceptors completed the survey with a response rate of 65%. The knowledge-based questions linked to drug information resulted in 18%, 36%, and 46% of correct, incorrect, and unsure responses respectively while the critical appraisal questions showed 18%, 27%, 55% of correct, incorrect, and unsure responses respectively. Major barriers to practicing EBM included lack of EBM training (81%) and interpreting study results (80%).

CONCLUSIONS: Community pharmacy preceptors showed poor knowledge and understanding of EBM. These results and expressed needs by pharmacists support the development of a supplementary course to improve EBM skills.