Postgraduate training for Medical Specialists in Pharmacology and Toxicology in Austria: basis for certification as European Certified Pharmacologists

T. Griesbacher1,2. 1Institute for Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, AUSTRIA, 2Austrian Pharmacological Society APHAR, Vienna, AUSTRIA.

Background and Aims: Although Pharmacology is widely accepted as a scientific discipline and is part of all medical curricula world-wide, the acceptance of Pharmacology as a medical specialty is generally low. As an example, the European Union of Medical Specialists (UEMS), founded 47 years ago and carried by all National Academies of Medicine in Europe has only this year installed a section of pharmacology. The need for experts whose experience and knowledge cover the entire breadth of the discipline has been recognised by both EPHAR, the European Federation of Pharmacological Societies, and EACPT, the European Association of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, who have developed a joint programme for certification (European Certified Pharmacologists, EuCP).

Summary of work and outcome: Pharmacology and Toxicology is recognised in Austria as an independent medical specialty only since 1994, when, analogous to other medical specialties, a 6-year postgraduate training was made compulsory. In 2006, training was specified more precisely in that the content of training was specified in detail. Training regulations were reformed in 2015 together with the Austrian Pharmacological Society APHAR, resulting in a new training structure. Basic training in pharmacology and toxicology covers 36 months; specialised training of 27 months is organised in modules, where trainees can select 3 out of 6 optional modules plus a compulsory scientific module. Each module is specified with respect to knowledge, experiences and skills. Training ends with a structured oral exam before a central examining board.

Discussion: Although unarguably being one of the smallest medical specialties in terms of numbers of specialists recognised by the Austrian Medical Chamber, the training fulfils the requirements set out by the EuCP Programme of EACPT and EPHAR. Thus, APHAR was one of the first two national societies of pharmacology having its certification scheme approved by the EuCP Commission in 2015. The first Austrian EuCPs were certified in 2016.

Conclusion: The value of structured training in pharmacology as basis of an independent medical specialty has started to be recognised by authorities which already require the diploma as medical pharmacologist for certain positions in the public health sector. However, in an international context, national regulations may lead to different levels of expertise. A Europe-wide system like the EuCP Programme of EACPT and EPHAR ensures a common, high standard of expertise following transparent criteria.