The Pharmaceutical Journal Vol 267 No 7170 p566-568
20 October 2001

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UK Medicines Information summary

Competency framework: the key to the future

Before medicines information (MI) pharmacists can empower others they have to empower themselves. Cathy Picton, an independent workforce development consultant, explained that one way to do this is through the use of competency assessment. The idea of a competency framework was formulated initially to underpin the United Kingdom Medicines Information national training course. However, in launching the new UKMI competency framework, Ms Picton explained that its other uses are probably more important. She said that the framework can be used as an aid to training, personal development, continuing professional development, appraisal or recruitment.

She revealed that competencies are of two types. The first type are task-based and are descriptions of job outputs, often to an agreed standard. The second are behavioural competencies. These are underlying characteristics or qualities which result in effective performance. They can be described as knowledge, skills, motives and personal traits.

The conference heard that statements reflecting desirable behaviours for MI pharmacists were generated by brainstorming sessions in focus groups. These statements were then refined by a consultation process which included all MI pharmacists in the UK, as well as key stakeholders such as selected chief pharmacists and primary care organisation advisers. She introduced the four competency areas which comprise the final framework: delivering the work of MI; working with people; working with information; and seeing the wider context. Within these areas, competencies are described by individual behavioural statements, she said. These are grouped underneath an overarching descriptive phrase which helps to guide users around the document. Each competency has two levels: level 1 should be attained by all MI pharmacists as a minimum requirement, and level 2 is a desirable higher level of competency which pharmacists should aim for (see below).

Training will be provided via two facilitators per region who will support and train local MI pharmacists. There will also be written guidance for MI pharmacists on how to make the best of this valuable tool.

The full competency framework can be viewed here.

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