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Jerez-Roig J, Bezerra de Souza DL, Cambra-Badii I, March-Amengual JM, Comella A, Masó-Aguado M, Ramon-Aribau A, Luque-Suárez A, Feito Grande L, Terribas N, Vivanco L, Busquets-Alibés E. Change in demand for health-related undergraduate studies in Spain during 2015-2021: a temporal series study. PeerJ 2023; 11:e16353. [PMID: 37953777 PMCID: PMC10638917 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The expansion of higher education is a worldwide phenomenon. To our knowledge, there are no studies analyzing the trends in demands of enrollment in health-related studies in Spain. Therefore, the objective was to analyze the change in demand (the number of requests for enrollment divided by the number of offered places) for undergraduate health-related studies in Spain during the period 2015-2021 as well as compare the change by region in the pre (2015-2019) and pandemic (2020-2021) period. Methods This is an observational (ecological type) study with temporal series analyses using data from public (non-for-profit) higher education institutions from the Integrated University Information System. For the analysis by region, we calculated the demand of all twelve undergraduate health-related degrees and the percentages of change between both periods using the Wilcoxon test. The Joinpoint Regression program was used to analyze the trends in demand for each degree during the 7-year period. Results Significant (p < 0.001) increases in demand during the pandemic period were observed in all regions. During the pandemic, medicine, biomedicine, nursing, odontology and pharmacy presented a higher demand in comparison with data collected before the pandemic started. In contrast, this pattern was not confirmed in the following cases: physiotherapy, occupational therapy, podiatry, psychology, social work, human nutrition and dietetics. By regions, Navarra, Asturias, and La Rioja presented the most drastic changes. In regions with the biggest number of universities, such as Catalonia, Andalusia and Madrid, the change observed was smaller.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Jerez-Roig
- Research Group on Methodology, Methods, Models and Outcomes of Health and Social Sciences (M3O), Faculty of Health Sciences and Welfare, Center for Health and Social Care Research (CESS), University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC), Vic, Spain
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Life Sciences and Health in Central Catalonia (IRIS-CC), Vic, Spain
| | - Dyego L. Bezerra de Souza
- Research Group on Methodology, Methods, Models and Outcomes of Health and Social Sciences (M3O), Faculty of Health Sciences and Welfare, Center for Health and Social Care Research (CESS), University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC), Vic, Spain
- Department of Collective Health, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | - Irene Cambra-Badii
- Research Group on Methodology, Methods, Models and Outcomes of Health and Social Sciences (M3O), Faculty of Health Sciences and Welfare, Center for Health and Social Care Research (CESS), University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC), Vic, Spain
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Life Sciences and Health in Central Catalonia (IRIS-CC), Vic, Spain
| | - Jaume-Miquel March-Amengual
- Research Group on Methodology, Methods, Models and Outcomes of Health and Social Sciences (M3O), Faculty of Health Sciences and Welfare, Center for Health and Social Care Research (CESS), University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC), Vic, Spain
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Life Sciences and Health in Central Catalonia (IRIS-CC), Vic, Spain
| | - Agustí Comella
- Research Group on Methodology, Methods, Models and Outcomes of Health and Social Sciences (M3O), Faculty of Health Sciences and Welfare, Center for Health and Social Care Research (CESS), University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC), Vic, Spain
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Life Sciences and Health in Central Catalonia (IRIS-CC), Vic, Spain
| | - Montse Masó-Aguado
- Research Group on Methodology, Methods, Models and Outcomes of Health and Social Sciences (M3O), Faculty of Health Sciences and Welfare, Center for Health and Social Care Research (CESS), University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC), Vic, Spain
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Life Sciences and Health in Central Catalonia (IRIS-CC), Vic, Spain
| | - Anna Ramon-Aribau
- Research Group on Methodology, Methods, Models and Outcomes of Health and Social Sciences (M3O), Faculty of Health Sciences and Welfare, Center for Health and Social Care Research (CESS), University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC), Vic, Spain
| | - Alejandro Luque-Suárez
- Department of Physiotherapy, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- The Biomedical Research Institute of Málaga (IBIMA), Málaga, Spain
| | | | - Núria Terribas
- Grífols Foundation Chair of Bioethics, Universitat de Vic, Vic, Spain
| | - Luis Vivanco
- Platform of Bioethics and Medical Education, Center for Biomedical Research of La Rioja (CIBIR), Logroño, Spain
- National Center of Documentation on Bioethics, Rioja Health Foundation (FRS), Logroño, Spain
| | - Ester Busquets-Alibés
- Research Group on Methodology, Methods, Models and Outcomes of Health and Social Sciences (M3O), Faculty of Health Sciences and Welfare, Center for Health and Social Care Research (CESS), University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC), Vic, Spain
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Life Sciences and Health in Central Catalonia (IRIS-CC), Vic, Spain
- Grífols Foundation Chair of Bioethics, Universitat de Vic, Vic, Spain
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Chen AMH, Brown S, Mark K, McBane S. An overview of Instructional approaches and decision-making strategies to curtail curricular overload. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL EDUCATION 2023; 87:100013. [PMID: 37597910 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpe.2022.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Curriculum overload often occurs when content is kept in the curriculum that may no longer be necessary to prepare students for professional practice. The overload becomes compounded by the addition of new content from the ever-changing professional practice needs and updates to accreditation standards. Challenges may occur when programs must first determine the "level" of proficiency a new graduate should attain and then determine the appropriate breadth and depth of educational outcomes in relation to proficiency, while examining what content should be retained from past curricula. Thus, the purpose of this manuscript is to summarize institutional approaches for making content delivery more effective and efficient with the goal of curtailing curriculum expansion. FINDINGS Four key elements were consistently identified in the literature as important considerations to address curriculum overload - 1) communication and coordination among faculty, 2) incorporation of active learning strategies, 3) effective utilization of technology, and 4) minimizing faculty and student workload and cognitive burden. SUMMARY Each pharmacy program will need to take an individualized approach in addressing curriculum overload; however, consideration of the aforementioned key elements can assist in making these decisions. With increased student engagement in the classroom, intentional design to reduce content and student workload, enhanced communication among faculty, and appropriate technology utilization, curriculum overload can be addressed at every level of pharmacy education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleda M H Chen
- Cedarville University, School of Pharmacy, Cedarville, OH 45314, USA.
| | - Stacy Brown
- Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy at East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614, USA
| | - Karen Mark
- South College School of Pharmacy, Knoxville, TN 37922, USA
| | - Sarah McBane
- UC Irvine School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
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Mirzaian E, White SJ, Karim M, Franson KL, Wu M, Wang Y. Exploring the Effect of Virtual Education on Student Pharmacists’ Confidence toward APPE Readiness. PHARMACY 2022; 10:pharmacy10050118. [PMID: 36287439 PMCID: PMC9612274 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy10050118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A drop in confidence in Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) readiness was observed in students in the Class of 2022 prior to starting APPEs. We aim to investigate potential causes of students’ low confidence in APPE preparedness to provide solutions and to prevent this outcome with future students. We evaluated students’ perceived confidence to start APPEs and compared this to curricular changes, employment obligations, and the impact of COVID-19 on delivery of the pre-APPE and APPE curriculum. Students’ low confidence with APPE readiness was not indicative of the following factors: (1) delivery of the didactic curriculum, (2) students’ performance in the didactic curriculum, or (3) number of summative assessments in key didactic courses. Rather, the low confidence perception may have been due to differences such as a fully remote didactic experience in the P3 year, more virtual Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experiences (IPPEs), a reduced course load in the P3 spring semester, and changes to a pre-APPE preparatory course compared to other class years. The students’ self-reported midpoint scores during their first APPE block and preceptor’s evaluations on their performance contrasted their pre-APPE perceptions. Frequent in-person and on-site skills assessments throughout the didactic curriculum seem to reinforce confidence before APPEs.
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Wingler MJB, Cretella DA, Wagner JL, Barber KE, Bookstaver PB, Freeman L, Covington EW, Bland CM, Jones BM, Tran M, Stramel SA, Turner M, Childress D, Stover KR. Evaluation of Pharmacy Residency Recruitment and Interview Processes during the COVID-19 Pandemic (2020-2021 Application Cycle). JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF CLINICAL PHARMACY 2022; 6:JAC51684. [PMID: 35942359 PMCID: PMC9350250 DOI: 10.1002/jac5.1684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, most pharmacy residency programs changed to an all-virtual format for recruitment and interviews for the 2020-2021 application cycle. There are no data evaluating the experiences and perceptions of these changes from the perspective of pharmacy residency programs and applicants. Methods An electronic cross-sectional survey was distributed via email to post-graduate year 1 (PGY1) and post-graduate year 2 (PGY2) pharmacy residency programs and applicants across the Southeastern United States. Results have been reported according to the Checklist for Reporting of Survey Studies (CROSS) guidelines (Enhancing the QUAlity and Transparency Of health Research [EQUATOR] Network). Results 142 residency applicants and 104 residency programs responded to the survey. Most respondents participated in virtual recruitment and interviews. In 2020-2021, less residency programs participated in local/regional showcases and personal placement services, but social media engagement increased. Of the applicants who responded, over half felt the need to apply to more programs during this application cycle, and a corresponding increase in applications were seen by residency programs. Residency interviews appeared shorter than previous years, and less programs offered an informal time to get to know the applicants. Overall, applicants and residency programs preferred on-site interviews, but both parties reported feeling confident creating rank lists after virtual interviews. Conclusion These results highlight the impact of COVID-19 on residency recruitment and the interview process. Residency programs should implement feedback for improving the virtual experience, as able. The ongoing pandemic may affect the 2022-2023 application cycle, and pharmacy leadership organizations should consider developing guidance for applicants and residency programs on navigating another year of virtual events.This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Joyce B. Wingler
- Department of Antimicrobial StewardshipUniversity of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMississippiUSA
| | - David A. Cretella
- Department of Antimicrobial StewardshipUniversity of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMississippiUSA
| | - Jamie L. Wagner
- Department of Pharmacy PracticeUniversity of Mississippi School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMississippiUSA
| | - Katie E. Barber
- Department of Pharmacy PracticeUniversity of Mississippi School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMississippiUSA
| | - P. Brandon Bookstaver
- University of South Carolina College of PharmacyPrisma Health Richland HospitalColumbiaSouth CarolinaUSA
| | - Lauren Freeman
- Department of Pharmacy ServicesWVU Medicine J.W. Ruby Memorial HospitalMorgantownWest VirginiaUSA
| | | | | | - Bruce M. Jones
- St. Joseph's/Candler Health System, Inc.SavannahGeorgiaUSA
| | - Maicuc Tran
- Department of PharmacyMemorial Hermann Memorial City Medical CenterHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Stefanie A. Stramel
- Department of PharmacyMemorial Hermann Memorial City Medical CenterHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Michelle Turner
- Department of PharmacyCone Health|Moses Cone HospitalGreensboroNorth CarolinaUSA
| | | | - Kayla R. Stover
- Department of Pharmacy PracticeUniversity of Mississippi School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi Medical CenterJacksonMississippiUSA
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Research on the Relationship between Digital Transformation and Performance of SMEs. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14106012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Through an empirical analysis of the performance of SMEs undergoing digital transformation, this study attempts to identify the influencing factors that determine their sustainable development to provide reference for academic researchers and industrial decision makers. Method: This study first uses an interview method to investigate the impact of SMEs’ three main resources on digital transformation: digital technology, employee digital skills, and digital transformation strategy. Second, we assess the impact of digital transformation on financial performance. Using the structural equation model, 335 valid questionnaires were recovered through the questionnaire method, and the key factors were identified using SPSS and SPSSAU tools. Results: In the Chinese context, digital transformation affects SME performance, and the three resources mentioned above are positively correlated with SMEs’ digital transformation. Digital transformation is positively correlated with performance, and it is the mediator of the impact of digital transformation strategies on performance. Conclusion: For SMEs, focusing on investing in digital technologies, employee digital skills, and digital transformation strategies are three key factors that are beneficial for digital transformation, thus helping to improve performance and maintain their sustainable development.
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Furtner D, Shinde SP, Singh M, Wong CH, Setia S. Digital Transformation in Medical Affairs Sparked by the Pandemic: Insights and Learnings from COVID-19 Era and Beyond. Pharmaceut Med 2022; 36:1-10. [PMID: 34970723 PMCID: PMC8718376 DOI: 10.1007/s40290-021-00412-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
A number of developments, including increasing regulatory and compliance scrutiny, increased transparency expectations, an increasingly vocal patient, patient centricity and greater requirements for real-world evidence, have driven the growth and importance of medical affairs as a trusted, science-driven partner over the past decade. The healthcare environment is shifting towards a digital, data-driven and payor-focused model. Likewise, medical affairs as a function within the pharmaceutical industry has become more "patient-centric" with strategic engagements embracing payers and patients apart from clinicians. The pandemic has impacted the healthcare industry as well as the function of medical affairs in numerous ways and has brought new challenges and demands to tackle. There is indeed a silver lining due to intense digital transformation within this crisis. The emerging digital innovation and new technologies in healthcare, medical education and virtual communications are likely to stay and advance further. In this review, we discuss how the digital transformation sparked by the pandemic has impacted the medical affairs function in pharmaceuticals and provide further insights and learnings from the COVID-19 era and beyond. Based on the learning and insights, digital innovation in three key strategic imperatives of medical affairs-HCP engagement, external partnerships and data generation will enable medical affairs to become future-fit as a strategic leadership function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Furtner
- Executive Office, Transform Medical Communications Limited, 184 Glasgow Street, Wanganui, 4500, New Zealand.
| | - Salil Prakash Shinde
- Regional Medical Affairs, Pfizer Corporation Hong Kong Limited, 21st Floor, Kerry Center, 683 King's Road, Quarry Bay, Hong Kong
| | - Manmohan Singh
- Regional Medical Affairs, Pfizer Corporation Hong Kong Limited, 21st Floor, Kerry Center, 683 King's Road, Quarry Bay, Hong Kong
| | - Chew Hooi Wong
- Regional Medical Affairs, Pfizer Private Limited, 80 Pasir Panjang Road, #16-81/82, Mapletree Business City, Singapore, 117372, Singapore
| | - Sajita Setia
- Executive Office, Transform Medical Communications Limited, 184 Glasgow Street, Wanganui, 4500, New Zealand
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