Cultural intelligence in pharmacy education: A mixed-methods exploration of student pharmacists' lived experiences...

Pharmacists are accessible healthcare professionals with ever evolving roles. Culturally responsive communication is essential to prepare student pharmacists to work with diverse populations. However, pharmacy education often emphasizes technical knowledge leaving graduates underprepared for diverse pharmacy practice settings. Developing cultural intelligence, the ability to understand, respect, and communicate effectively across cultures, is critical for improving patient outcomes and reducing health disparities.

An observational, cross-sectional mixed-methods study was conducted to evaluate student pharmacists lived experiences and cultural intelligence and communication development. All student pharmacists (N = 119) were eligible to participate in the study. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative data from the focus groups were deductively coded using the Cultural Intelligence Framework domains and sub-domains.

Eighteen pharmacy students completed the online questionnaire that included demographic information and the CCCQ; and 12 students agreed to participate in the focus groups. Four focus groups were conducted between February and October 2023. The CCCQ responses revealed participants demonstrated strong attitudes regarding the importance of socio-cultural issues, factors contributing to health disparities, self-awareness of biases and the value of training in cultural competence. Students connected more frequently to the Practice, Awareness, and Desire CIF domains, and less frequently with the Knowledge domain.

Student pharmacists value cultural intelligence and are motivated to provide culturally competent care, however, current educational experiences do not consistently equip student pharmacists with the skills to translate awareness into practice. Integrating structured curricula, evidence-based resources, preceptor training, and reflective opportunities is essential to prepare future pharmacists to deliver equitable, patient-centered care.