MyDispense in pharmacy education

Abstract

Pharmacy education has significantly advanced through the introduction of simulation-based education. This approach modernised pharmacy training by providing risk-free environments for students prior to career placement. MyDispense, an online simulation platform, has emerged as a significant tool that aims to enhance practical skills of pharmacy students in a virtual setting. This study reviewed the global application of MyDispense in pharmacy education, identified countries where MyDispense was integrated, assessed method of application used, and evaluated the impact of MyDispense on students. Integration of MyDispense in the pharmacy curriculum of the University of Malta was proposed and developed. A qualitative research design was employed, involving a literature review from databases such as, Google Scholar, ProQuest, and PubMed. Inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed studies that used “MyDispense” as a keyword in a free full text published in English from 2016-2023 and specifically addressed the use of MyDispense in pharmacy education. Data were extracted and analysed to assess findings across different countries. Twenty-four relevant studies from ten countries were included in the review. The utilization of MyDispense across various countries demonstrated significant improvements in pharmacy education. Most of the methods found were mixed qualitative and quantitative using surveys and interviews to evaluate the impact of MyDispense on students. Specific methods of application were noted across different countries. In Australia and UAE, MyDispense was integrated into tutorials mostly for first-year students, while in the United States, it was embedded in coursework with feedback from students and educators. The evaluation and impact of MyDispense on students were prominently positive across all the ten countries. MyDispense notably enhanced the student’s dispensing skills, confidence, and prepared them for professional practice. The plan for integrating MyDispense at the University of Malta was supported by these diverse global applications, with specific steps such as collaborating with MyDispense developers, technical setup, training sessions for faculty and students, and continuous feedback mechanisms to optimise its integration and enhance student learning outcomes. MyDispense has demonstrated to be an excellent tool addressing the gap between conventional learning and actual pharmacy practice. The findings of the study reinforce the importance of simulation-based learning tools and promote the ongoing integration of MyDispense in pharmacy education globally. In conclusion, the integration of MyDispense into pharmacy curricula worldwide has the potential to improve the quality of pharmacy training for the next generation of pharmacists.