Preparing NAPLEX®-Ready Graduates Requires Collaboration to Optimize Success

• DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpe.2025.101427
• Publication Date: 2025-05-31T23:35:49Z
• Authors: Mary Elizabeth Ray; Thomas M. Ellington; Lisa Lebovitz; Sarah A. Spinler; Diana M. Sobieraj; Michael P. Kelsch; Aleda M.H. Chen

Declining NAPLEX® pass rates are causing widespread discussions and urgent investigations regarding potential causes including an examination of Doctor Pharmacy (PharmD) program characteristics, content curricula, student preparedness, evolving exam blueprint. Many studies have been carried out to understand the association factors with success, individual programs attempted address those mixed results. It is time include additional stakeholders work together on collaborative solutions. The National Association Boards (NABP), Accreditation Council for Education (ACPE), American Colleges (AACP), PharmD (including preceptors students) invested in may influence outcomes. Specific recommendations NABP ACPE increased transparency timing process blueprint changes, coordination a structured crosswalk between standards content, consideration overall as measurable outcome quality. should consider strategies such engaging preparation providing proactive support skills management. Collectively, AACP members can capitalize our collective expertise develop shared resources practice question bank. Enhancing alignment education licensure ensures that pharmacy graduates prepared practice, ultimately benefiting patient care.