Pharm D Program: Is it Necessary in BRICS?

The various trajectories of the development of the Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm D) programs in BRICS countries were reviewed individually, showing the progress of Pharm D programs in each context. Evidence from developed countries indicates that Pharm D programs have contributed towards the positive development of public health and a country’s local health requirements, with well-trained clinical pharmacists having a key role in the health and economic development of these emerging powers. The health systems of BRICS countries are heavily challenged with a dual burden of disease, weak health infrastructure and public health initiatives. Thus, not only will the development of Pharm D programs in BRICS countries strengthen pharmacy education contributing to a pharmacy workforce more readily able to target health-related problems, demographic and epidemiological shifts; but will also better equip public health systems with more patient-centered pharmaceutical care necessary for evidence-based, individualized and cost-effective healthcare.