Artificial intelligence in pharmacy education: A scoping review of current integration & global perceptions

Abstract

BackgroundThe rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping healthcare, including pharmacy, requiring AI-proficient pharmacy graduates. This necessitates an understanding of how AI is utilized in pharmacy education. This scoping review aims to summarize current literature on AI in pharmacy education, including its implementation and perceptions among students and faculty, and examine the alignment of these applications with accreditation standards to inform future curriculum development. MethodsA literature search was performed across PubMed, Scopus, Embase, CINAHL, and Google Scholar, for studies on AI in pharmacy education. Articles were categorized as innovation or perception studies. Innovation studies underwent thematic analysis to identify practical applications, while perception studies captured AI familiarity and willingness for curricular integration. AI applications were mapped to the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) and Canadian Council for Accreditation of Pharmacy Programs (CCAPP) standards. ResultsTwenty articles (10 innovation, 10 perception) were included. Faculty utilized AI for evaluation, assessment, and reflective writing analysis. Students used AI for personalized learning, enhancing communication, and problem-based learning. Some studies reported high AI familiarity; others showed limited knowledge. Nevertheless, a strong willingness to integrate AI into pharmacy education was observed, with students desiring more AI-focused curricula. Mapping AI applications to accreditation standards demonstrated that AI integration can support educational outcomes and competency requirements. ConclusionsThe findings highlight potential AI applications in pharmacy education, underscoring the need to incorporate AI into pharmacy curricula. Alignment with accreditation standards suggests that AI integration addresses evolving professional needs and maintains quality standards for pharmacy programs.