Presenter:
Asal Taheri
Authors:
Paul Lao, Asal Taheri
Poster Abstract:
Purpose: In June 2023, pharmacists in British Columbia gained authorization to prescribe for minor ailments and contraception. To prepare for this expanded scope, pharmacy students must develop diagnostic and prescribing skills before graduation, supported by skills labs and practicums. However, limited data exist on student involvement in these activities during practicums and preceptors’ perceptions of students’ readiness. We addressed this gap by “EXamining the Participation of Learners on Outpatient Rotations in Encounters involving the Minor Ailments and Contraception Service” (EXPLORE-MACS) through preceptors’ lenses. Findings informed curriculum enhancements, preceptor support strategies, and experiential learning initiatives.
Methods: Using the UBC Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences preceptor database, we invited community pharmacy preceptors (n=469) to complete a retrospective online survey with multiple-choice, short-answer, and Likert-type questions. The survey explored student engagement, performance, and preceptor perspectives. Close-ended responses were analyzed descriptively and open-ended responses thematically.
Results: We received 27 valid responses (5.8%). Preceptors reported student involvement across all prescribing activities and nearly all authorized indications, even for conditions they have not yet learned in school. All but one preceptor agreed that student participation offered valuable patient-care learning. While most students met expectations, challenges included gaps in confidence, knowledge, communication, and time management. Two-thirds of preceptors preferred more information from the Faculty regarding students’ prior training.
Conclusion: Students were exposed to a range of prescribing activities, helping develop prescribing and patient-care skills. Additional practice may improve confidence, resource utilization, and readiness for unfamiliar indications. In May 2025, preceptors received a guide clarifying student preparedness to enhance Faculty-preceptor communication.
