Integration of an Internet-based medical chart into a pharmacotherapy lecture series

Abstract

Objectives: To integrate an Internet-based medical chart (IMC) system into a pharmacotherapy course to facilitate evaluation and feedback processes, foster development of written documentation skills, and prepare pharmacy students for future changes in electronic medical documentation systems.

Design: An IMC system was introduced into a pharmacotherapy course for third-professional year pharmacy students and 4 "finish the SOAP note" activities were added to the curriculum. Students' performance on the SOAP notes were assessed by a team of evaluators. At the end of the semester, students and evaluators completed separate 6-item survey instruments concerning the usefulness of the IMC system in meeting the course objectives.

Assessment: Students' performance on documentation activities improved over the course of the semester: 87% of the students avoided repeating previous mistakes by their final documentation activity. The vast majority of the students and evaluators found the system easy to use and the activities helpful.

Conclusion: The development, implementation, and initial expansion of the IMC system across both laboratory and pharmacotherapy courses was a success. Continued integration into clinical coursework is planned and will further expand opportunities for applied learning experiences to prepare students for their experiential program and beyond.