Maintaining a Professional Regulation Commission license is essential to continue practicing legally. One important requirement for renewing a PRC license is earning Continuing Professional Development units.
What Is CPD for Pharmacists?
Continuing Professional Development is a learning process that helps licensed professionals enhance their knowledge, skills, and values relevant to their profession.
The PRC and the Professional Regulatory Board of Pharmacy mandate pharmacists to earn a certain number of CPD units before they can renew their license. While the required units may vary depending on PRC guidelines, the goal remains the same: continuous professional growth.
Why Choose Online CPD?
Traditionally, pharmacists attended face to face seminars, workshops, or training sessions to earn CPD units. However, with the digital shift, online CPD programs have become a popular option.
Here are the benefits of earning CPD units online:
1. Flexibility Learn at your own pace, anytime and anywhere.
2. Accessibility No need to travel to training venues.
3. Affordability Many online CPD providers offer cheaper or even free programs.
4. Variety of Topics Choose from a wide range of pharmacy related and healthcare topics.
5. Time Saving Perfect for busy professionals balancing work and personal life.
Ways Pharmacists Can Earn CPD Units Online
Enroll in PRC Accredited Online Seminars and Webinars
Many professional organizations and universities offer CPD accredited online seminars through Zoom, Google Meet, or other platforms. These usually include lectures, interactive Q&A sessions, and case discussions.
Examples:
Philippine Pharmacists Association (PPhA) webinars
PRC accredited pharmacy schools hosting online training
Take Online Courses From CPD Providers
Several CPD providers run self-paced online courses that pharmacists can complete within weeks or months. These courses often include video lectures, reading materials, and quizzes.
CPD online learning platforms in the Philippines
International pharmacy-related e-learning sites with PRC accreditation
Participate in Virtual Conferences
Professional pharmacy conferences that used to be face-to-face are now conducted online. These conferences provide multiple CPD units and allow pharmacists to learn from industry leaders.
Join Online Workshops and Training
Some CPD-accredited providers offer virtual workshops focusing on specialized areas such as clinical pharmacy, hospital pharmacy, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and regulatory affairs.
Read Accredited Online Journals and Research Papers
Certain CPD programs award units for reading and reviewing accredited journals or research articles online. This option is ideal for pharmacists who prefer self-directed learning.
Attend Free CPD Webinars
From time to time, organizations like DOH (Department of Health), FDA (Food and Drug Administration), and NGOs host free CPD webinars online. These are great opportunities to learn and save money.
Steps to Earn CPD Units Online
Here’s a step by step process to make sure you earn valid CPD units:
Check the PRC CPD Requirements
As of recent guidelines, pharmacists need a certain number of CPD units. Always check PRC.gov.ph for the latest requirement.
Choose PRC Accredited CPD Providers
Not all online training programs are recognized by PRC. Make sure the provider has a valid accreditation number.
Register for Online Training or Courses
Sign up online, pay the registration fee if required, and secure your confirmation email.
Complete the Training
Attend webinars, watch lectures, or finish online modules. Some require quizzes or assessments.
Get Your CPD Certificate
After completing the course, download or request your e-certificate. Make sure the PRC accreditation number is visible.
Submit to PRC During Renewal
Upload or present your CPD certificates when renewing your PRC license online.
Popular Topics for Online CPD in Pharmacy
Pharmacists can choose CPD courses depending on their area of practice. Some evergreen topics include:
Clinical Pharmacy Updates
Rational Drug Use and Antimicrobial Stewardship
Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety Monitoring
Hospital Pharmacy Practice
Community Pharmacy Management
Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
Drug Regulatory Affairs and FDA Guidelines
Pharmacoeconomics and Healthcare Policy
Pharmaceutical Research and Innovation
Patient Counseling and Communication Skills
How Many CPD Units Do Pharmacists Need?
PRC regulations may change, but pharmacists generally need 15 CPD units for renewal. However, there are transition periods or exemptions in some cases. Always double check the latest PRC resolution before planning your CPD activities.
Tips to Maximize Online CPD Learning
1. Plan Early:- Don’t wait until renewal is near before earning units. Spread out learning sessions.
2. Budget WiselyL- Take advantage of free or low-cost webinars before investing in paid ones.
3. Verify Accreditation:- Always confirm if the CPD program is PRC-approved.
4. Keep Records:- Save all certificates, receipts, and emails as proof.
5. Balance Your Topics:- Choose both general pharmacy updates and specialized areas to broaden your expertise.
6. Engage Actively:- Participate in Q&A sessions during webinars for deeper learning.
7. Network With Fellow Pharmacists:- Use online CPD events to connect with peers and mentors.
Future of Online CPD for Pharmacists
The pandemic accelerated the shift to online CPD, and it is here to stay. With digital learning platforms becoming more sophisticated, pharmacists can expect:
More interactive learning tools
- Global access to experts through international webinars
- Affordable CPD options compared to traditional seminars
- On demand learning for professionals with busy schedules
