Poster 9 – Enhancing Pharmacy Education with Generative AI: Student Perspectives on a Simulation Patient Role-Playing Program

Presenter:
Fong Chan

Authors:
Dr. Fong Chan*, Dr. Jamie Yuen*, Brie Weir, Jon-Paul Marchand, Neelam Bancy, Dr. Nour Mishel Ghashghaei (*Drs. Chan and Yuen are Co-Principal Investigators)

Poster Abstract:

Learning objectives:

  1. Describe a web-based case platform that integrates generative AI virtual patients for student practice.
  2. Identify student opportunities to practice clinical skills using generative AI technology.
  3. Interpret student perspectives on a generative AI enabled platform to enhance learning opportunities.

GENRx utilizes generative AI to simulate scenarios to support students as they practice developing the clinical skills of comprehensive history taking, physical assessment, and documentation. The project team deployed one pilot case and students enrolled in a primary care elective were invited to participate. After completing a case interacting with a generative AI patient persona, students provided feedback through an anonymous online survey consisting of three open-ended questions evaluating their experience. Qualitative analysis of responses was performed to determine themes.

Fifteen students (50%) participated. Several key themes emerged from thematic analysis of the survey responses. Positive themes included 1) a realistic simulation experience, 2) helpful practice for information gathering during patient interviews, 3) ease of use, and 4) the desire for expanded use in pharmacy teaching. Themes around suggestions for improvement included 1) refining responses for a more realistic patient interaction, 2) enhancing user experience and guidance, 3) incorporating AI-related societal issues into discussions, and 4) additional functionalities.

The results highlight strengths of the tool and areas for improvement to enhance its effectiveness for student learning. These findings will guide future refinements (e.g. text-to-voice, physical exam, documentation) and support the integration of generative AI into pharmacy education and other health disciplines.

Keywords: Generative Artificial Intelligence, Patient Role-Playing, Pharmacy Education

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