Impact of a health‐system longitudinal advanced pharmacy practice experience on student growth and postgraduate career placement

Abstract

AbstractWhile most longitudinal advanced pharmacy practice experiences (LAPPEs) include sequential core rotations, programs vary regarding additional elements offered. Pharmacy residency programs have become increasingly competitive with applicants outnumbering available positions. LAPPEs can help students improve their candidacy for postgraduate training while also benefiting health systems.ObjectiveTo describe the health‐system perspective of a LAPPE designed to build professional skills in students to best prepare them for subsequent career pursuits.MethodsStudents enrolled in the Eskenazi Health (EH) LAPPE were asked to complete pre‐ and postprogram assessments regarding career interests, strengths, areas for improvement, and goals. Students were also asked to rank their comfort level with 27 clinical skills in four categories. Additionally, a survey was distributed to all program alumni to gather demographic and qualitative data.ResultsIn the 9 years since inception, 52 students have enrolled in the EH LAPPE. Of the 44 program graduates surveyed, 41 responded (93%). Of these, 95% completed postgraduate training in 18 different states and two obtained jobs directly following graduation. The majority (54%) applied for a postgraduate year one (PGY1) residency at our institution, of which 11 (27%) matched for at least 1 year of residency training. A total of 32 students completed the pre‐ and postprogram skills assessments which demonstrated a statistically significant increase in comfort level in all 27 skills, with a median increase of 1.5 on a 4‐point scale. Clinical research, mentors, and mock interviews were identified as most helpful to program alumni.ConclusionsThe EH LAPPE can serve as an example for health‐systems wishing to institute a similar program. Students experienced perceived growth and increased confidence in various patient care activities, and successful career placement suggests that students benefited from career preparation elements of the LAPPE. LAPPEs can provide benefits to health systems through student contributions and should be considered by sites looking for growth and unique precepting opportunities.