Science Behind the Magic
Delve into the empirical studies that unveil the transformative power of ACMA's certification programs.
BCMAS Training Result: Increase in Knowledge
The study involved 25 BCMAS graduates from various medical fields, using a two-tailed t-test to compare pre- and post-program test scores within the BCMAS program. It found a statistically significant mean score increase of 28 points, an 80% improvement.
BCMAS Training Result: KOL Recognition
87% of KOLs surveyed (n=1100) responded that MSLs who held BCMAS were perceived as being more credible, trustworthy, and competent than their non-certified counterparts.
The majority of KOLs agreed that having BCMAS credentials demonstrates a company's commitment to excellence for patient quality and care.
Overview of Medical Affairs Education at Colleges/School of Pharmacy
Data from 14 pharmacy schools showed a lack of medical affairs courses, although it's a major employment field for pharmacists. While all schools offered medical information courses, only a few included health economics, outcome research, and publications.
Citation: Nguyen A, Soliman S, Kanmaz T. Required versus elective medical affairs education in colleges/schools of pharmacy in the United States. Poster presented at: 2018 ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting. December 2018; Anaheim, CA.
PACS Training Result
This study on prior authorization practices, involving 25 individuals, demonstrated an average 18.5% increase in pre-test scores after completing the PACS program modules. Notably, the HIPAA, Security, Fraud, and Abuse module showed the highest score increase (44.97%). Overall, these statistically significant results highlight the PACS program's effectiveness in enhancing prior authorization education, crucial for patient access and care.
Citation: Mui J, Soliman S. Impact of a Field Reimbursement Certification for Prior Authorization Specialists. In: Proceedings from the 2021 American Society of Health-System Pharmacists; Virtual. December 5-9, 2021; Virtual. Abstract 1121340.
Are Pharmacy Schools Adequately Preparing Graduates for Roles in Industry?
A survey of 66 pharmacy graduates in the pharmaceutical industry showed that 72% felt underexposed to industry careers during their education. Additionally, 82% would have opted for a pharmaceutical industry course and 64% for board certification during their studies.
Citation: Kanmaz T, Mandler H, Rasty S, Soliman S. Are pharmacy schools adequately preparing graduates for roles in industry? Poster presented at: 119th Annual Meeting of the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy. July 21-25, 2018; Boston, MA.
Developing and Implementing a HyFlex Elective Course in Medical Affairs Addressing a Curricular Gap
Marshall University School of Pharmacy introduced the ACMA's Medical Affairs Competency Certificate (MACC) program as an online elective to help pharmacy students explore careers in the pharmaceutical industry. Research showed that 80% of students initially lacked significant knowledge about these career paths, revealing a gap in the existing curriculum. The course primarily attracted students aiming to broaden their career options and learn about medical affairs in the pharmaceutical sector.
Citation: Brazeau G, Dixson K, Soliman S, et al. Developing and Implementing a HyFlex Elective Course in Medical Affairs Addressing a Curricular Gap. Poster presented at: 2023 AACP Pharmacy Education Meeting. July 2023.
Medical Science Liaisons Within the Pharmaceutical Industry: Description and History
Pharmaceutical companies historically relied on sales representatives (PSRs) for product promotion, but Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs) have gained prominence due to their scientific expertise. The study shows a decline in PSRs from 102,000 in 2005 to 68,400 in 2017, whereas MSLs increased from 10,000 in 2015 to about 210,000. This growth is attributed to MSLs' knowledge and expertise in healthcare.
Citation: Yung A, Soliman, SR. Medical science liaisons within the pharmaceutical industry: description and history. Poster presented at: 2019 American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. December 8-12, 2019; Las Vegas, Nevada.
Pharmacist Preference in Use of Brand Names for Generic Drugs
Of the 75 community pharmacists initially screened, 47 completed the survey, yielding a 94% response rate. Among them, 66% were more comfortable dispensing generic drugs with brand equivalents, while 34% felt less comfortable doing so.
Citation: Bee Park H, J. Globus N, Soliman S. Pharmacist preference in use of brand names for generic drugs. Published in NJPhA. 2020.
Comparison of Board Certifications
The study aimed to distinguish between certificate and certification, comparing various board certifications for medical affairs and MSL professionals. It established that true board certification requires assessment, accreditation, and oversight by an independent board of experts. Among compared certifications, only ACMA's BCMAS met all these criteria.
Citation: Thompson-Eshun T, Soliman S. Comparison of board certifications. Poster presented at: 2021 ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting. December 2021; Virtual.