Community pharmacists’ attitudes and approaches to the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain continuing professional development initiatives

In October 2001 the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain (RPSGB) decided to make continuing professional development (CPD) mandatory. A voluntary CPD scheme was introduced in 2002 with the aim of a seamless transition to a mandatory system. Appropriate legislation is not expected before late 2004. CPD is “the process by which pharmacists continuously enhance their knowledge, skills and personal qualities throughout their professional careers”, CPD is not the same as continuing education (CE) nor is it a new concept. This study identified community pharmacists’ attitudes and approaches to the RPSGB CPD initiatives and the current uptake and non-participation of CE and CPD.