Implementation of a nontraditional postgraduate year 1 pharmacy residency program.

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Education
• Residency Training
• Veterans Health Administration

Background:

• Traditional pharmacy residency programs are essential for developing clinical expertise.
• There is a need for flexible training models to accommodate practicing pharmacists.
• The Veterans Affairs (VA) system seeks to enhance the skills of its pharmacy staff.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development and implementation of a nontraditional PGY1 pharmacy residency program.
• To create a program that meets staff needs without compromising patient care.
• To offer pharmacists equivalent learning experiences to traditional programs.

Main Methods:

• The nontraditional program spans two years, alternating four- to six-week learning experiences with work schedules.
• Learning experiences, both required and elective, range from four to six weeks.
• Longitudinal learning experiences can extend up to two years, aligning with accreditation standards.

Main Results:

• The nontraditional PGY1 pharmacy residency program was successfully developed and implemented at Lebanon VAMC.
• The program structure allows for equivalent learning outcomes to traditional one-year programs.
• The inaugural resident began in July 2012, with a commitment to serve the VAMC post-residency.

Conclusions:

• The nontraditional pharmacy residency program at Lebanon VAMC meets ASHP accreditation standards.
• The program successfully provides advanced training for pharmacists, improving clinical, leadership, and preceptorship skills.
• This model offers a viable alternative for pharmacists seeking residency training within the VA system.