A Call to Action for Integrating Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experiences With Purpose

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Education
• Experiential Learning

Background:

• Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experiences (IPPEs) are vital for preparing pharmacy students for contemporary practice and Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPEs).
• Effective IPPE curricula require sequential progression and coordination with didactic coursework.
• Pharmacy programs face numerous challenges impacting IPPE design and implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe common challenges in integrating high-quality IPPE programs into Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) curricula.
• To propose potential solutions for these challenges.
• To provide a tool for pharmacy programs to evaluate and revise their IPPE programs, particularly in light of new 2024 standards.

Main Methods:

• This is a commentary, not a research study.
• It synthesizes common issues and potential strategies for IPPE program development.
• The content is intended to guide systematic and holistic IPPE program evaluation.

Main Results:

• Common challenges in IPPE program integration are identified.
• Potential solutions and strategies for overcoming these challenges are discussed.
• The commentary emphasizes the need for periodic review and adaptation of IPPE curricula.

Conclusions:

• Systematic and holistic evaluation and revision of IPPE programs are imperative.
• Pharmacy programs should proactively address challenges to ensure high-quality experiential education.
• This resource aims to assist programs in optimizing their IPPE curricula for future pharmacy practice readiness.