Medical apps used during advanced pharmacy practice experiences

Abstract

Background and purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine what type of medical applications (apps) are being used by fourth-year students during advanced pharmacy practice experiences (APPEs).

Educational activity and setting: Recent doctor of pharmacy school graduates were surveyed pertaining to their use of medical apps on APPEs, frequency of use for select apps, willingness to buy apps and at what cost, and their perceived importance on using medical apps in their pharmacy practice. The survey concluded by inquiring if medical apps should be taught in the pharmacy curriculum.

Findings: Ninety of 132 recent graduates responded to the survey and over 97% of the students used medical apps on their APPEs. Lexicomp^®, UpToDate^® and the Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD) Risk calculator were the most frequently used applications during APPEs. Of those surveyed, 83% believe that medical apps should be taught in pharmacy school.

Discussion and summary: Medical apps are frequently used on APPEs. It may be prudent to teach students how to use and evaluate medical apps before going on experiences so that students and patients can get the most benefit from these tools.

Keywords: APPEs; Educational technology; Medical applications; Medical apps; Mobile devices.