Insights Into Perceptions, Motivations, and Barriers Toward Board Certification Among Pharmacists in Middle East Countries: A Cross‐Sectional Study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Pharmacist board certification through the Board of Pharmacy Specialties (BPS) is expanding in many developed countries; however, research on this topic in the Middle East remains limited. This study aimed to assess the perceptions, motivations, barriers, and factors associated with pharmacists pursuing BPS board certification in Middle Eastern countries. METHODS: A cross-sectional online questionnaire consisting of multiple sections assessing demographics, knowledge, attitudes, motivations, barriers, and job satisfaction was distributed to licensed pharmacists across Middle East countries between October 2024 and January 2025 via professional and social media platforms using a snowball sampling approach. RESULTS: A total of 1631 pharmacists participated in the study, of whom 512 (31.4%) were board certified. Board-certified pharmacists reported higher levels of pride and self-confidence related to their certification status (p < 0.001). Multivariable logistic regression showed that lower-income pharmacists were more likely to seek board certification (odds ratio [OR] = 2.2; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.4-3.4; p < 0.001). Conversely, lack of guidance regarding BPS certification (OR = 0.55; 95% CI: 0.40-0.76; p < 0.001) and insufficient financial support (OR = 0.59; 95% CI: 0.40-0.84; p = 0.003) were associated with lower odds of certification. Pharmacists who learned about certification through an instructor (OR = 1.9; 95% CI: 1.4-2.57; p < 0.001) or through journal articles (OR = 1.36; 95% CI: 1.01-1.8; p = 0.045) were more likely to pursue a certification. CONCLUSION: This study identifies key regional barriers toward pursuing board certification particularly limited guidance and financial constraints which highlights the need for targeted strategies such as mentorship, employer support, and educational outreach to enhance certification uptake and strengthen the pharmacy workforce in the Middle East.