A Survey of Pharmacy Student Involvement in Wellness Programs

Objective. The primary objective of this study was to assess wellness programs that are integrated into experiential training in the pharmacy curriculum. The secondary objective was to ascertain faculty members' beliefs towards student involvement in community service-oriented wellness programs within early pharmacy curricula. Methods. A national survey of pharmacy colleges and schools in the United States was conducted in 2003 using web-based survey administration. Results. Of 82 pharmacy colleges and schools sampled, 49 responded to the survey. Of these, 44 institutions offered wellness programs. Forty of these institutions allowed doctor of pharmacy students to interact with patients directly via wellness programs. All respondents, independent of their institution's involvement in wellness programs, believed that these students should be allowed to participate in wellness programs and interact with patients. Conclusion. This study demonstrates the need for pharmacy educators to encourage increased part...