Bridging the Digital Divide: The Importance of Techquity in Pharmacy Education

Abstract

Technology is ubiquitous in both pharmacy education and practice, vital for optimizing the learning environment and delivering high-quality patient care. The growth of artificial intelligence, automation, and wearable technologies has prompted changes in pharmacy curricula, with the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education now requiring education on digital health and associated technologies. Although technology offers significant benefits, it can also perpetuate inequities that disproportionately affect marginalized populations. These disparities arise from differences in technology access, varying levels of digital literacy, and biases embedded within technological tools. With the anticipated continuing expansion of technology use, creating equitable learning environments and preventing unintentional biases in patient care are paramount goals. Therefore, this commentary aims to introduce the concept of techquity and urge pharmacy educators to discuss not only digital health but also the sources of technology-driven inequities. Further, we encourage faculty to remain mindful of these inequities within the learning environment and explore ways to promote techquity in education. Educating future pharmacists about techquity will ensure a future where technology-based inequities are significantly minimized or eliminated.

Keywords: Biomedical technology; Digital health; Health equity; Inclusive pedagogy; Pharmacy.