RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Educating Pharmacy Students About Underserved Populations Using Patient Speakers and Simulation Activities JF American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education JO Am J Pharm Educ FD American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy SP 8461 DO 10.5688/ajpe8461 VO 85 IS 7 A1 Nebergall, Sean A1 Dula, Colleen A. Clark A1 King, Stacy A. A1 Matthews, David E. A1 Haas-Gehres, Anna A1 Li, Junan YR 2021 UL http://www.ajpe.org/content/85/7/8461.abstract AB Objective. To assess the impact of the Patient Voices series on Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) students.Methods. A series of patient speakers and integrated simulation activities focused on underserved populations, otherwise known as the Patient Voices series, was embedded into a pharmacy skills laboratory curriculum. First-year PharmD students’ self-ratings of confidence were compared on pre- and post-course surveys. Using evaluations from first-year introductory pharmacy practice experiences (IPPEs), student self-evaluation data were compared to preceptor evaluations of student performance. Open-ended responses to course evaluations from first- and second-year PharmD students and student reflections from third-year PharmD students were assessed using conventional content analysis to identify and characterize student perceptions.Results. Significant increases were observed in first-year students’ confidence to show empathy (mean, 4.2 to 4.7) and to interact with patients from underserved communities (mean, 2.2 to 4.2). Preceptor ratings of students’ empathy were consistent with the students’ self-rated abilities, while students’ self-ratings on cultural sensitivity were higher than the preceptors’ ratings. Qualitative analysis of course evaluation surveys and reflections revealed common themes identified by students, such as understanding different perspectives, increased empathy for patients, and the value of including this content in the curriculum.Conclusion. Student confidence to interact with patients from a variety of underserved populations increased following introduction of the Patient Voices series into the PharmD curriculum. Students perceived the series to be a valuable learning experience.