Dear Colleagues:

As I reflect on what’s taking place in the profession worldwide, it is very evident that we all are in pursuit of new practice models and services that will allow pharmacists to further their contributions to the betterment of human health. This pursuit, in turn, translates to the pursuit of high-quality professional education, postgraduate training, and professional development programs that will best prepare the necessary number of qualified pharmacists to provide these services. Such pursuits are much apparent in the articles published in this issue of ACCP International Clinical Pharmacist.

An example of the advancement of new patient-centered pharmacist roles and the changes in the education systems to support such advances taking place around the globe is described in the article on “Clinical Pharmacy Education and Practice in Lebanon.” In addition to describing the evolution of professional education and new pharmacist roles in Lebanon, the article highlights the increasing number of pharmacists seeking specialty certification and the need for additional opportunities for pharmacists to practice clinical pharmacy in the country.

The article on “International Pharmacy Residency Accreditation: The Saudi Experience” underscores the importance of accreditation of postgraduate residency training programs that further advance pharmacists’ knowledge, skills, and experiences in providing safe and cost-effective patient care. Accreditation of a training program by an internationally or nationally recognized body is important to ensure that the program meets predetermined quality standards set forth by the profession.

Continuing professional development programs designed to equip pharmacists with the knowledge and skills necessary for them to take on new initiatives are paramount to the success of these initiatives. Sharing experiences with colleagues from across the globe, such as those that took place during the international seminar and staff development programs described in the piece on “ACCP Partakes in International Seminar on Experiential Education in India,” are invaluable real-life experiences to all who are involved.

ACCP International Clinical Pharmacist editorial staff encourage pharmacist practitioners and educators to share their innovative practices and views on current issues of importance to the profession locally, nationally, and internationally.

Sincerely,

Wafa Y. Dahdal, Pharm.D., BCPS (AQ Cardiology)