Perceptions, obstacles, and solutions for offering Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experiences in the community hospital setting: A qualitative survey

Abstract Objective We sought to identify barriers and possible solutions for community hospitals providing Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experiences (IPPE). Methods A survey was developed and made available online to a segment of members of the American College of Clinical Pharmacy. Responses were collected anonymously. Results of the survey were assessed using descriptive statistics. Results A total of 45 individuals who self-identified as being employed in acute care hospitals or hospital systems currently hosting IPPE students responded to the survey, with 35 of these individuals completing the entire survey. Pharmacy department staff-, school-, and student-related burdens and barriers were identified, and successful approaches to providing IPPE were described. It is unknown how many members receiving the survey practice in acute care community hospital settings, so the true response rate for this survey is unknown, and the responses to this survey cannot be generalized. Conclusions Informed planning and preceptor support for IPPE may enhance the quality of learning activities available to students and decrease the burden of providing IPPE for hospital-based preceptors. This survey provides preliminary information that may be built upon; a subsequent quantitative study is needed to glean generalizable information on this topic.