Geriatric Concentration: A New Elective Sequence in an Entry-Level Doctor of Pharmacy Program

Objectives. The geriatrics concentration elective sequence in the entry-level doctor of pharmacy program at the Mylan School of Pharmacy at Duquesne University was devised, first, to introduce students to the complex pharmaceutical care needs of the elderly; second, to expose students to career options and enhance employability through credentialing in geriatrics; and third, to increase the confidence and motivation for graduates to pursue advanced geriatrics education, training, and specialist certification. Design. The curriculum consists of a didactic elective sequence of 3 courses (8 total credits) offered in the evenings of the fifth and sixth academic years. Sixth year students must complete at least one specialized experiential rotation and pass a final comprehensive geriatrics certification examination. Assessment. Preliminary data from university teaching and clinical teaching effectiveness questionnaires in didactic and experiential courses, respectively, are presented. Available data are limite...