Opinions about climate change, health, and pharmacy education among pharmacy faculty and administrators in the United States: A cross-sectional survey

Abstract

Background

The pharmacy profession must address climate change and its impact on health. Student pharmacists should be made aware of roles in sustainability, education, patient care, and advocacy; yet, pharmacy educators’ perceptions of climate change and health may impact the extent and quality of education provided.

Objective

The primary objective was to assess pharmacy educators' beliefs regarding climate change and whether its effects on health should be included in Doctor of Pharmacy curricula. Secondary objectives were to identify potential barriers, helpful materials, and current and future tactics to provide this content.

Methods

An electronic survey was sent to faculty and administrators of U.S.-based, fully-accredited Doctor of Pharmacy programs (n = 139) in February 2024 collecting opinions and demographic information.

Results

A total of 764 usable surveys were completed, representing 135 programs. Nearly 87 % of respondents thought climate change is happening. More thought climate change harms human health (74.7 %) than thought climate change was relevant to pharmacists/pharmacy practice (51.6 %, p < 0.001) or pharmaceutical scientists/pharmaceutical sciences (57.2 %, p < 0.001). Perceived importance of including specific topics in pharmacy education ranged from 58 % (loss of biodiversity) to 80 % (disaster preparedness/response). Respondents indicated they would be most likely to use case studies (61.2 %) and active learning exercises (57.5 %) if they were available. Ninety-seven percent perceived at least one challenge to incorporating climate change and health in curricula.

Conclusions

There is a need to increase knowledge and awareness among pharmacy educators regarding the connection between climate change, health, and pharmacy practice to prepare student pharmacists to protect public health.