A new qualification for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians involved with clinical trials has been launched by the Liverpool school of pharmacy and the Association of Clinical Research for the Pharmaceutical Industry.
Initially, it involves the study of a single course module on the pharmacy aspects of clinical trials in which the roles and duties of clinical trials pharmacists and technicians in the National Health Service and pharmaceutical industry are taught. The module also covers good clinical practice.
Once this module has been successfully completed, students can choose further modules, worth 15 course credits each, to obtain a certificate of professional development in clinical research (30 credits), postgraduate certificate in clinical research (60 credits) or a postgraduate diploma in clinical research (120 credits).
Dr Alan George (reader in clinical pharmacology, Liverpool John Moores University) told The Journal recently that the initial module provided training in clinical trial preparation, interpretation, management, monitoring, audit, costing and accounting. Those who achieved the certificate of professional development in clinical research would learn about the clinical trials pharmacist's role and the opportunities were open to pharmacists in wider clinical research.
Students can take the initial module alone or in conjunction with subsequent modules. Modules cost £699 each, with a reduction for those employed in the NHS or in academia. Two modules taken together to obtain the professional development certificate cost £1,300. Details are available from Dr George (e-mail A.J.GEORGE@LIVJM.AC.UK, tel 0151 231 2256). Application forms may be obtained from Ms Louise Galvin (e-mail L.GALVIN1@LIVJM.AC.UK, tel 0151 231 2248).