Impact of an ambulatory introductory pharmacy practice experience on advanced pharmacy practice experience readiness

Introductory pharmacy practice experiences (IPPEs) allow pharmacy students early exposure to practice settings to prepare for advanced pharmacy practice experiences (APPEs) and help discover career interests. While only institutional health system and community IPPEs are required, ambulatory care is a growing practice model and required APPE. This study investigates the impact of a required 20-h ambulatory IPPE on pharmacy students' confidence, perceived skills, interests, and readiness for APPEs.

A cross sectional survey was conducted pre- and post-ambulatory IPPE for third-year (P3) students between 2020 and 2022 to assess confidence in various competencies. Post surveys captured overall impact and APPE readiness. A control group of fourth-year (P4) students who did not take the ambulatory IPPE completed the pre-survey for comparison.

Confidence scores increased for several competencies following the ambulatory IPPE and students felt more prepared for APPEs. Post scores were higher in P3 students than P4 students. Most students agreed that the rotation improved their patient care skills and ability to identify problems.

The ambulatory IPPE positively impacted students' perceived skills and confidence in ambulatory care, preparing them further than more tenured students who had not taken the ambulatory IPPE, particularly in patient communication and describing daily responsibilities of the pharmacist. This highlights the benefits of early exposure to ambulatory care settings in pharmacy education and suggests integrating such experiences could better prepare students for APPE success. Further research is needed to determine the optimal duration and impact on practical application of skills.