INNOVATIONS in pharmacy

Strategies Proposed by Students and Pharmacists for Virtual Experiential Patient Care Practicums

Rebecca Leung

Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7674-5162

Hayley Hefford

Providence Health Care, Pharmacy Services, Vancouver, BC, Canada

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3434-0113

Caitlin Chew

Children’s & Women’s Health Centre for British Columbia, Pharmacy Services, Vancouver, BC, Canada

https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0997-0137

Jamie Yuen

Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5020-4285

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24926/iip.v14i4.4985

Keywords: pharmacy student, education, practicum, preceptor

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Abstract

Background: The University of British Columbia (UBC) Pharmacists Clinic (the Clinic) is a pharmacist-led patient care clinic serving as a practice site for experiential education in a team-based primary care practice. Given the unprecedented circumstances surrounding COVID-19, pharmacy practice sites have transitioned some of their experiential education activities to a virtual format. Currently, there is limited literature on developing best teaching practices which are conducive to students’ success in a virtual environment.

Objective: To determine the factors that enable successful development of a virtual patient care practicum experience at a university clinic from the perspectives of student pharmacists and practice educators.

Methods: A qualitative research methodology was used to gain the perspectives of student pharmacists and practice educators. Separate focus group interviews were conducted using a semi-structured approach and consisted of questions aimed at gathering insight into participant perspectives on virtual practicums. The focus group sessions were audio recorded with participant consent and transcribed. A thematic analysis was conducted to analyze the data.

Results: Three pharmacist practice educators and three student pharmacists participated in their respective focus groups. A thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Six major themes emerged: (1) technology optimization, (2) patient care related activities, (3) student-practice educator relationship, (4) student skill development, (5) student support, and (6) in-person vs virtual practicum preferences. Proposed strategies to mitigate the limitations of virtual practicums included setting communication guidelines, arranging enriching learning opportunities, and having reliable internet connection.  

Conclusion: The participants in this study provided insight on factors to support successful development and delivery of a virtual patient care practicum. The results from this study can be applied to other health disciplines and their approach to virtual practicums during and following the COVID-19 pandemic.