A Qualitative Approach to Improving Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences in an ACPE International Certified Program

Objective. To explore the opinions and recommendations of university and health care professional experts regarding the Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPE) curriculum at the King Saud University College of Pharmacy. Methods. Forty-eight health care professionals of different backgrounds participated in a roundtable discussion during a 1-day meeting. The discussion revolved around three predefined themes: the doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) program learning outcomes, regulations and responsibilities and APPE activities and syllabi, non-clinical rotations, and assessment. The discussion was transcribed verbatim. Discussion of each theme was summarized and incorporated in the result. Results. Discussion regarding the PharmD program learning outcomes emphasized clinical outcomes with an additional focus on basic sciences. The regulations and responsibilities table incorporated guidance toward developing student professionalism. APPE activities and syllabi, non-clinical rotations and assessment recommendations encompassed crucial issues such as effective communication among the college, preceptors, and students, scheduled site visits, financial reimbursement for preceptors, student preparatory workshops, and non-clinical rotations. Conclusion. This roundtable discussion identified many of the concerns and recommendations previously encountered or currently being addressed in many of the previous studies and current accreditation standards. International candidates should consider these recommendations when applying for certification.