Pharmaceutical care education at the University of Chile

Abstract

The study of Pharmacy at the University of Chile has been continuously adapting to the scientific developments and change in the practice of pharmacy. The University of Chile has considered, since 1997, the internship as one of the final activities in the pharmacy curriculum. In 1998, some modifications were made in the objectives and contents of this final activity. The purpose of these modifications was to include and develop the concept of pharmaceutical care. The present study shows some results obtained through these modifications. Between 1998 and 2000, 187 students completed the new internship experience. Of this total, 143 (76.5 percent), worked directly with patients, with a maximum of 80.6 percent (50 students) in the year 2000. Between 1998 and 2000, 118 students (63 percent) preferred to have these practice experiences at adult and children's hospitals. Changes in the internship motivated students to formulate and to develop pharmaceutical care plans. This new type of internship has been evaluated as a very stimulating activity.