Evaluation of a Longitudinal Institutional Advanced Pharmacy Practice Model.

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Education
• Experiential Learning
• Healthcare Professional Training

Background:

• Traditional Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPEs) often involve significant student orientation time.
• There is a need for innovative training models to enhance student participation and integration into healthcare teams.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a longitudinal experiential training model, the Focused Institutional Longitudinal Experience (FILE) program, for APPEs.
• To compare the quality and value of the FILE program against the traditional APPE model.

Main Methods:

• A six-month longitudinal pilot program (FILE) was implemented at two academic medical centers.
• Student and preceptor ratings were compared between FILE students and peers in traditional APPEs using nine quality measures.
• A unique longitudinal service project involving medication use evaluation was a core component of the FILE program.

Main Results:

• No significant difference was found in student self-rated APPE quality between FILE and traditional models.
• FILE students reported feeling well-prepared for post-graduate training (mean score 4.3).
• Preceptors perceived FILE students as requiring less orientation and being more likely to engage in independent patient care.

Conclusions:

• The choice between longitudinal and traditional APPEs may depend on student preference.
• Program enhancements include pairing students with pharmacy residents for service projects and clarifying roles for students, residents, and preceptors.
• Continuous program improvement is driven by annual feedback from students and preceptors.