Background: In 2009 a review into cancer services in South Australia (the Communio review) was conducted in response to two incidents. Recommendation 9 of the review was that standardised training for oncology pharmacists and pharmacy technicians be developed and implemented.
Objective: To develop a state-wide training package for the clinical verification of systemic cancer therapy by a pharmacist for use at all adult SA Health sites.
Action: In 2010, a group was formed to develop the training package, comprising a lead project pharmacist and representation from a senior cancer pharmacist from each major public hospital. The original package was developed with six modules, utilising a variety of learning modalities including reading, interactive activities, and mentoring by a senior cancer pharmacist. Assessment methods included 20 multiple choice questions (pass mark of 100%), followed by a minimum of 20 supervised verifications from a minimum of four different tumour streams. This package was subsequently reviewed and updated in 2015 and 2020 by the SA Pharmacy Cancer Services Group to reflect current practice.
Evaluation: In 2021, a survey was distributed to all pharmacists who had completed the training package since the 2015 update, to ensure the training package meets the learning requirements of participants. A total of 13 responses were received, representing five sites. Most respondents (85%) rated the training package as high quality and 100% thought the package facilitated improved knowledge and skills. The main improvement suggested was the provision of more time and resources to complete the package.
Discussion: Since implementation of the training package, all pharmacists entering cancer services at a SA Health site have undergone a standardised training program and gained competence through this package to ensure safety in cancer services.