A two-step training program for utilizing interpreters during patient interactions: Advancing student pharmacists...

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Education
• Interprofessional Communication
• Health Equity

Background:

• Effective communication is crucial in patient care, especially for diverse populations.
• Medical language barriers can impede patient understanding and adherence.
• Pharmacy students require specialized training to effectively use interpreter services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a two-step training program for Doctor of Pharmacy students.
• To enhance student pharmacists' ability to utilize medical language interpreters.
• To assess the impact of training on student confidence and patient satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• A two-step training program involving virtual modules and standardized patient encounters was implemented.
• Professional year two (P2) student pharmacists practiced counseling using interpreters.
• Skills were applied at a health fair, with pre- and post-program assessments of student confidence and patient satisfaction.

Main Results:

• 23 P2 students completed the program, showing improved confidence in using interpreters.
• 100% of students were satisfied with training modules; 94.4% felt prepared.
• Patients reported high satisfaction (100%) with student-interpreter communication at the health fair.

Conclusions:

• The two-step training program effectively prepares pharmacy students to use medical interpreters.
• Students demonstrated high satisfaction with the training and acquired skills.
• Integrating this program into the pharmacy curriculum can enhance patient communication and experiences.