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ROUTE TO CLINICAL PHARMACY: THE EXCHANGE PROGRAMME EXPERIENCE (submitted in 2019)

European Statement

Clinical Pharmacy Services

Author(s)

Chiara Inserra, Antonio Solinas, Chiara Panciroli, Branden Nemecek, David Zimmerman, J.Douglas Bricker, Piera Polidori

Why was it done?

Successful implementation of clinical pharmacy services are associated with improved prescribing practices. SIFO includes clinical pharmacy in their mission to line up with Section 4 of the European Statement on Hospital Pharmacy and is striving for implementation through advanced trainings for IHPs. The aim of this EP was to provide real world clinical pharmacy training to IHPs.

What was done?

Through international collaboration between Duquesne University School of Pharmacy in Pittsburgh (PA-USA) and the Italian Society of Hospital Pharmacy (SIFO) a clinical pharmacy exchange programme (EP) was established to provide clinical education to Italian pharmacists interested in advancing the profession. From 2010 to 2018, SIFO provided several grants to allow Italian hospital pharmacists (IHPs) to participate. In 2018, three IHPs from across Italy were selected for a 1 month experience to gain experience and insight into practices that they may use in their facilities.

How was it done?

The clinical training was created by Duquesne University to provide IHPs educational and first-hand clinical skills based on American clinical pharmacy practice and education. The training was individualised for IHPs’ interests including didactics and practical training. Sessions to discuss IHPs’ progress were conducted with the Dean and faculty of the programme.

What has been achieved?

IHPs had the chance to observe American pharmacy education and compare it to the Italian one. American university training was practical, well-coordinated with clinical activities, and based on a trustful teacher-student relationship. During practical training IHPs shadowed American Clinical Pharmacists (ACP) specialized in different areas: Infectious Disease, Cardiology, Oncology, Emergency Medicine, Internal Medicine, Community Pharmacy, Ambulatory Care. They were able to observe how ACPs validate prescriptions and are actively engaged in direct patient care, participating in bedside multidisciplinary rounds and making recommendations on therapies (drug interactions, dose adjustments, antibiotic selection). IHPs saw how technology investments, prioritisation of care, and availability of skilled personnel underlie American hospital pharmacy practice.

What next?

IHPs gained baseline clinical pharmacy skills to enhance care at their facilities; however, the widespread implementation of clinical pharmacy in Italy requires education reform, enhanced resources and integration of pharmacists within a multidisciplinary team. Implementation of small projects through collaboration with universities should be considered in the Italian hospital setting.

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