Abstract
The importance of evidence-based medicine (EBM) has been recognized in pharmaceutical education in Japan, and EBM is clearly stated as a component of the revised-model core curriculum for this specialty. However, there is currently insufficient training to enable students to acquire EBM skills that may be applied to patient care. To implement effective EBM education, we believe that instruction should alternate between university and clinical settings. For this purpose, pharmacists should generate and disseminate evidence from clinical sites, including community pharmacies and hospitals. Based on the philosophy of using an academic detailing educational approach, universities should aim to optimize medication management through educational activities that bridge the gap between basic science and clinical practice. In addition, clinical-practice-related training, such as the creation of formularies, is desirable. In the United States, EBM education is embedded throughout the pharmacy degree program, from fundamental education to practical training. Therefore, such strategies can be incorporated into Japanese educational programs in the near future.
