ABSTRACT
The coronavirus identified in 2019 (COVID-19) has caused dramatic disruptions in pharmacy experiential education. Administrators and programs have worked to help external preceptors, faculty members, and students cope with the new realities of virtual or remote experiences and new or increased use of telemedicine. Clear and effective lines of communication as well as well-reasoned and resourced alternative plans are necessary to help manage the current issues and prepare for future challenges. Doctor of Pharmacy programs should enhance their focus not just on the physical health and well-being of students, faculty members, and external preceptors, but also on their mental and emotional health. The full scope of the impact of the pandemic on experiential education in pharmacy is still unclear, but this situation should serve as a stimulus for innovation and rethinking the paradigm of how pharmacy programs educate and prepare students for pharmacy practice.
ABSTRACT
Submitted May 19,2021;accepted June 28,2021;published February 2022 Keywords: priorities, strategic planning, disruption, resilience, collaboration To the Editor: Dr. Daniel Malcom's commentary, "The Challenge of Coming to Terms with Evolving Priorities," resonated with us as we begin the process of recovering from the overwhelming number of personal and professional changes we've experienced in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.1 The disappointment described by Malcom and other faculty members in his department was faced by various institutions around the world. Identifying one's priorities and values in times of relative calm can provide clear navigation when the road becomes bumpy and unpredictable, whether it presents itself as a literal flat tire, not matching for a residency position at the end of pharmacy school, or a global pandemic. Activities designed to improve self-awareness such as emotional intelligence, CliftonStrengths and other character trait inventories can help us understand who we are, what we value, and how we present ourselves.2 Knowledge of one's guiding values or priorities can serve as a compass, pointing you towards your final destination, even if you're momentarily on a detour.
ABSTRACT
The coronavirus identified in 2019 (COVID-19) has caused dramatic disruptions in pharmacy experiential education. Administrators and programs have worked to help external preceptors, faculty members, and students cope with the new realities of virtual or remote experiences and new or increased use of telemedicine. Clear and effective lines of communication as well as well-reasoned and resourced alternative plans are necessary to help manage the current issues and prepare for future challenges. Doctor of Pharmacy programs should enhance their focus not just on the physical health and well-being of students, faculty members, and external preceptors, but also on their mental and emotional health. The full scope of the impact of the pandemic on experiential education in pharmacy is still unclear, but this situation should serve as a stimulus for innovation and rethinking the paradigm of how pharmacy programs educate and prepare students for pharmacy practice.