Strategies Proposed by Students and Pharmacists for Virtual Experiential Patient Care Practicums

Background: The University of British Columbia (UBC) Pharmacists Clinic (the Clinic) is a pharmacist-led patient care clinic serving as a practice site for experiential education in a team-based primary care practice. Given the unprecedented circumstances surrounding COVID-19, pharmacy practice sites have transitioned some of their experiential education activities to a virtual format. Currently, there is limited literature on developing best teaching practices which are conducive to students’ success in a virtual environment. Objective: To determine the factors that enable successful development of a virtual patient care practicum experience at a university clinic from the perspectives of student pharmacists and practice educators. Methods: A qualitative research methodology was used to gain the perspectives of student pharmacists and practice educators. Separate focus group interviews were conducted using a semi-structured approach and consisted of questions aimed at gathering insight into participant perspectives on virtual practicums. The focus group sessions were audio recorded with participant consent and transcribed. A thematic analysis was conducted to analyze the data. Results: Three pharmacist practice educators and three student pharmacists participated in their respective focus groups. A thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Six major themes emerged: (1) technology optimization, (2) patient care related activities, (3) student-practice educator relationship, (4) student skill development, (5) student support, and (6) in-person vs virtual practicum preferences. Proposed strategies to mitigate the limitations of virtual practicums included setting communication guidelines, arranging enriching learning opportunities, and having reliable internet connection.   Conclusion: The participants in this study provided insight on factors to support successful development and delivery of a virtual patient care practicum. The results from this study can be applied to other health disciplines and their approach to virtual practicums during and following the COVID-19 pandemic.