Evolution of clinical pharmacy practice and pharmacy education in Taiwan, Vietnam, and Indonesia: A narrative review

In this narrative review, we trace the evolution of health care, clinical pharmacy practice, and pharmacy education in Taiwan and two Southeast Asian countries, Vietnam and Indonesia. In evaluating the current health-care systems and progress toward health-care reform, we review the major changes that have impacted pharmacy practice and pharmacy education in each of these countries. The lack of qualified and well-trained pharmacists has been identified as one of the key barriers to advancement of clinical pharmacy in this region. This shortage is based on a number of factors which include having a pharmacy education system that needs reform and expansion to adequately meet the growing demands of global public health. Many initiatives from organizations such as the World Health Organization, the International Pharmaceutical Federation, and the Federation of Asian Pharmaceutical Associations have influenced the advancement of global pharmacy practice and education. Moreover, we highlight key legislative changes that have impacted clinical pharmacy development in these countries and discuss how foreign policy changes in Taiwan have increased its collaboration with foreign pharmacy schools in Vietnam and Indonesia. Understanding the history and progress of clinical pharmacy education in these countries is important to help shape future collaborations that advance pharmacy practice and improve global health.