Association Between NAPLEX Preparation Program Characteristics and First-Time Pass Rates

Abstract

<b>Objective</b>. The objectives of this study were to 1) describe characteristics of NAPLEX preparation programs currently utilized by colleges and schools of pharmacy and 2) to evaluate these program characteristics in relation to first-time NAPLEX pass rates. <b>Methods</b>. This cross-sectional study was based on an online survey administered between February and March 2020. Assessment leads from 143 PharmD programs were invited to answer questions on their schools’ PharmD program characteristics and various aspects of NAPLEX preparation programs. The study included regression analyses to investigate the associations between the NAPLEX first-attempt pass rates and PharmD demographic characteristics, as well as data collection on various aspects of the NAPLEX preparation programs. Finally, common themes from the open-ended questions were identified. <b>Results</b>. Fifty-eight participants completed the survey out of 132 successfully delivered email invitations (response rate = 44%). Fifty participants (86%) indicated that their PharmD program offers a NAPLEX preparation program. Our data indicate that offering a NAPLEX preparation program was not significantly associated with higher NAPLEX first-attempt pass rates. The analysis identified possible explanations for this lack of association, including student concerns with balancing a prep program with APPEs, and faculty workload associated with delivering such programs. <b>Conclusion</b>. The current findings show no association between offering a NAPLEX preparation program and NAPLEX first attempt pass rate. Future research should continue to examine the impact of these programs on individual school pass rates and factors that may enhance student motivation to engage in these programs.

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