Pharmacy education in Cuba

Background In Cuba, as in other countries around the world, professional pharmacy has moved from a product orientation (dispensing medications) to a focus on the patient. Aim To provide an overview of the current status of pharmacy education in Cuba. Methods Research was conducted on the historical records of the curriculums used in pharmacy education in Cuba. Results All programs require a minimum of 5 years of postsecondary education prior to attainment of the Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy degree, which is currently the entry-level degree for the profession. The main change currently affecting practice of and education in pharmacy in Cuba is the introduction of pharmaceutical care concept. Conclusions All University Schools of Pharmacy are formally involved in the continuing professional development of practitioners as an important part of the educational life cycle for pharmacists.