Pharmacy Student Perceptions and Knowledge of Online Pharmacy Use

Abstract

Objective. Currently, there is no set of standards for integrating the dangers of online pharmacies into Doctor of Pharmacy (DoP) curricula. As a result, many pharmacists are unable to recognize the differences between a legal and illegal online pharmacy, or educate patients on the dangers of online pharmacies. The objective of this study was to assess gaps in student pharmacist knowledge, and the impact of adding education on online pharmacies in DoP programs.

Methods. A pre and post survey design was developed. Data was collected through an electronic questionnaire distributed to pharmacy students in their second professional year (P2) to evaluate student knowledge gaps at baseline and after their education on illegal online pharmacies.

Results. A total of 102 students responded to the pre-survey, with 93 (91%) consenting to participate. Out of 100 respondents to the post-survey, 84 (84%) students consented. Approximately 87% (81/93) indicated some awareness of prescription medications being purchased online. Most students (89%, 77/86) stated that they do not believe the University has provided adequate curriculum on illegal online pharmacies and counterfeit medications. After receiving education on the relevant topics, 64% (55/85) stated they now felt their education was adequate.

Conclusion. Although pharmacy students are aware of the existence of illegal online pharmacies, they were not aware of the significance of this patient safety issue, or how to accurately identify suspicious websites. It is imperative that DoP programs incorporate formal education on the risks illegal online pharmacies pose to patient and medication safety in society today.