Clinical Pharmacy Education in Japan: Using Simulated Patients in Laboratory-Based Communication-Skills Training...

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Education
• Communication Skills Training

Background:

• Japanese pharmaceutical curriculum extended to six years in 2006.
• Practical communication skills training integrated into the fourth year.
• Kitasato University School of Pharmacy implemented a program pre-2006 guidance.

Purpose of the Study:

• Evaluate Kitasato University's communication-skills training program.
• Assess the effectiveness of practical training for pharmacy students.

Main Methods:

• Surveyed 242 fourth-year pharmacy students.
• Students used model charts for patient data acquisition.
• Conducted simulated patient interviews (hospital admission, counseling).
• Small group simulations with simulated patient and faculty feedback.

Main Results:

• Students demonstrated improved communication skills.
• The training approach was effective in skill development.
• A system for gradual, continuous skill acquisition was developed.

Conclusions:

• The program effectively enhances clinical and practical communication skills.
• Gradual and continuous training is key to skill acquisition.
• The Kitasato University program serves as a model for pharmacy education.