Revitalization of a communication pharmacy course: The journey of reframing student perceptions

Despite the conveniences and logistical safety benefits of health information technology, there is an increasing public need for improved communication in live and virtual encounters with healthcare providers, including pharmacists. Increasingly, the digital world necessitates the need for pharmacy curricula to improve healthcare professional students' fundamental professional communication skills.

A new clinical faculty member's journey through revitalizing a pharmacy professional communication course is presented. The project utilized reframing and perception recalibration while adding experiential learning to add curricular application opportunities both face-to-face and virtually.

Doctor of pharmacy programs require continued prioritization of the development and teaching of communication curricula to optimize future healthcare providers' effectiveness in improving patient health outcomes. Student perception of pertinence is improved by presenting clear subject matter progression, adapting materials to fit an empathy-based healthcare-specific aim, and pairing didactic material with a community introductory pharmacy practice experience.