Exploring the value of a Doctor of Philosophy program in Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy Research in Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND: The need for graduate education in Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy Research (POPR) is becoming increasingly apparent worldwide. However, the number of professionals in this field is inadequate in the Middle East. Therefore, this study aimed at gaining insight into the perceived value of a potential Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program in POPR among different stakeholders in Saudi Arabia. METHODS: Following the development of a Ph.D. program structure in POPR, a questionnaire was created to explore the perception of its value among decision-makers in different healthcare and governmental institutions. An email with detailed information on the proposed program was sent to 131 identified individuals along with an online link to the questionnaire. RESULTS: Responses were provided by 107 (81.67%) individuals. The majority of respondents (53.3%) represented large organizations with more than 500 workers; hospitals and academia were the most represented types of institutions. More than 85% of the participants strongly agreed that the program will meet the needs of the healthcare market in Saudi Arabia and that there will be a demand for graduates of the program over the next 5–10 years. However, only 28.04% of the participants declared that they would definitely recommend the program to their colleagues and employees, and 49.53% would consider employing its graduates. CONCLUSIONS: The obtained results indicate a significant interest among different stakeholders in introducing a Ph.D. program in POPR in Saudi Arabia.