Introducing pharmacy students to the structure and function of general practice through undergraduate placements

The aim of this study was to design and evaluate the introduction of a sustainable and feasible structure of placements in general practice for third-year pharmacy students at the University of Sunderland. The national agenda in the United Kingdom (UK) calls for an increased presence of pharmacists within general practice; therefore, development of placements in this is setting is aligned to the development of these new roles.

The placements were located in general practice surgeries in the North East of England in the UK. Students engaged in activities which introduced them to the structure and function of general practice and familiarise them with the role of pharmacists and other practice staff. Two cohorts undertook the education activity during the development process. The first cohort was comprised of 213 students, with 193 students the following year.

An action research approach was taken to evaluate and revise the design of the placement. The final design and delivery have been shown to have a positive impact on student learning experience, be feasible and sustainable. The placement was also successful at introducing students to potential future roles in general practice for pharmacists.

This model of general practice placement provision was found to be a feasible and sustainable delivery model, which was well received by undergraduate students.