Assessing the University of Arizona of College of Pharmacy (UA COP) Students’ Attitudes towards, Perceptions of, and Interests in Compounding Pharmacy Using a Voluntary Questionnaire

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the University of Arizona College of Pharmacy (UA COP) students’ attitudes toward, perceptions of, and interest in compounding pharmacy and to describe the influence of’ experience in compounding pharmacy. Methods: Questionnaires were administered during a regularly scheduled class. Students rated their opinions on the level of regulation of compounding pharmacies and the quality of patient care provided by compounding pharmacists compared to that provided by traditional community pharmacists, as well as their attitudes towards recommending a compounding pharmacy to a patient, family member, and himself/herself. Students also indicated their interest in learning and working in a compounding pharmacy. The survey was approved by the University IRB. Results: A total of 242 students completed the questionnaire, an 81% response rate. The 2nd and 3rd year students had significantly more experience in compounding pharmacy than the 1st year students (p=0.016). Students (92%) who had experience in compounding pharmacy, believed that compounding pharmacies are much more regulated compared to other pharmacies (p<0.001). Students with or without experience were interested in learning more about compounding pharmacy (p=0.14); however, students with experience were more interested in working in a compounding pharmacy (p<0.01).Attitudes towards and perceptions of quality of care of compounding pharmacy were similar. Conclusions: UA COP students have positive attitudes toward, perceptions of, and interest in compounding pharmacy and students’ experiences in compounding pharmacy influenced their interest in learning and working in a compounding pharmacy.