The present situation of psychopharmacology teaching suggests the need for a European curriculum

Abstract

Introduction

In most European countries postgraduate training for specialization in psychiatry and psychotherapy is acquired over the course of 4–6-year programs. In the European Union, qualification in one country is recognized within other countries of the Union.

Objectives and aims

To analyze the present situation of psychopharmacology-pharmacopsychiatry postgraduate teaching in Europe and to present the needs and preliminary instruments for improving the situation by harmonization of the programs.

Methods

Analysis of the data available from national psychiatric societies and from the literature; development of a consensus among experts in this field.

Results

Despite efforts to standardize post-graduate training, the curricula in different European countries vary greatly. This variability limits comparability between countries and international exchange while carrying consequences in the breadth and quality of education that trainees receive. Literature and curricula mainly published in USA as well as a recently published curriculum and learning catalogue in Germany [1] offer useful tools for the development of a curriculum at a European level.

Conclusions

There is clearly a need for standardization of psychopharmacology-pharmacopsychiatry teaching at the European level. This can be achieved by the introduction of a curriculum and learning catalogue developed by European experts and based on tools already available.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.