In a significant step toward harmonizing oncology pharmacy practice worldwide, the International Society of Oncology Pharmacy Practitioners (ISOPP) recently published a landmark global review titled "Global Oncology Pharmacy Service Levels and Knowledge Requirements: A Review by ISOPP." This comprehensive study, led by Marissa Ryan and colleagues, provides the first international benchmarking of oncology pharmacy service provision and associated knowledge requirements across 35 countries.
Drawing on responses from ISOPP global leaders, the paper outlines the newly established ISOPP Oncology Pharmacy Service Levels - seven tiers that reflect the complexity and breadth of oncology pharmacy services, from community-based care to strategic leadership roles.
The findings exhibit significant variation in service delivery, often correlating with a country's Human Development Index, and highlight disparities in access to postgraduate education, formal recognition (protected titles), and certification programs.
Notably, this research maps the current landscape and offers a guide to progress. By standardizing terminology and charting gaps, ISOPP facilitates national and institutional stakeholders to advocate for service extension, create focused education programs, and build mentorship pathways.
As ISOPP moves forward with its strategic goals - especially those focused on professional development and global empowerment - this work stands as a foundational tool for driving equity and excellence in oncology pharmacy practice worldwide.
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Kofi Boamah Mensah
Lecturer - Pharmacy Practice
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
Kumasi, Ghana
