Sequential simulation of a patient journey

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Education
• Integrated Care Models
• Healthcare Simulation

Background:

• Pharmacists play a crucial role in patient care.
• Current healthcare systems often operate in silos, potentially impacting patient outcomes.
• There is a need for effective interventions to educate pharmacists on integrated care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an educational intervention for pharmacists on integrated care.
• To enhance pharmacists' understanding of their role in implementing integrated care.
• To improve pharmacists' confidence in delivering patient care within an integrated system.

Main Methods:

• A sequential simulation based on a patient's journey was developed.
• Scenarios were co-designed with input from pharmacists and patients.
• Evaluation included questionnaires, field notes, and video analysis.

Main Results:

• 19 out of 21 respondents (90.5%) found the simulation a good or excellent educational experience.
• Participants reported improved confidence in enhancing patient care.
• Knowledge and understanding of integrated care were significantly enhanced.

Conclusions:

• Sequential simulation is a practical and novel method for illustrating integrated care pathways.
• This approach fosters mutual focus and empathy among participants.
• The intervention is effective in preparing frontline healthcare staff for integrated care settings.