Becoming a preceptor at drake university pharmacy preceptor continuing education requirements and Health Sciences is a rewarding way to guide future pharmacists. Preceptors play a vital role in shaping students through hands-on training during Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experiences (IPPE) and Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPE). To ensure high-quality education, Drake University sets clear continuing education (CE) requirements for its pharmacy preceptors. We explores these requirements, their importance, and how preceptors can meet them effectively.
Why Preceptor Continuing Education Matters
Preceptors bridge classroom learning with real-world practice, helping students develop skills in patient care, problem-solving, and professional communication. Continuing education ensures preceptors stay updated on pharmacy practices, teaching methods, and Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) standards. By meeting CE requirements, preceptors maintain their expertise and provide meaningful mentorship to students.
Drake University emphasizes professional development to support its mission of preparing competent pharmacists. CE helps preceptors stay informed about advancements in pharmaceutical sciences, patient-centered care, and experiential education best practices. This commitment enhances the quality of Drake’s PharmD program and ensures graduates are ready for successful careers.
Drake University Preceptor CE Requirements
Drake University aligns its preceptor CE requirements with ACPE standards and collaborates with organizations like the Iowa Pharmacy Association (IPA) and CEimpact to offer accessible training. Below are the key components of the CE requirements for pharmacy preceptors at Drake.
Initial Preceptor Training
New preceptors must complete an initial training program to understand their role and responsibilities. This training, often called “Preceptor Orientation,” covers:
-
Setting clear expectations for students.
-
Providing effective feedback during midpoint and final evaluations.
-
Understanding Drake’s experiential education curriculum, including IPPE and APPE goals.
-
Using CORE ELMS, Drake’s experiential learning management system, for documentation and evaluations.
The orientation is available online through platforms like CEimpact, and preceptors receive free CE credits upon completion. This training ensures preceptors are equipped to mentor students effectively from day one.
Ongoing Continuing Education
Preceptors must engage in ongoing CE to maintain their status and stay current in pharmacy practice. Drake recommends completing a minimum of 15 CE hours every two years, with at least 3 hours focused on preceptor development. These hours can include:
-
Pharmacy practice updates: Topics like new medications, clinical guidelines, or patient care strategies.
-
Preceptor-specific training: Workshops or courses on mentoring, providing feedback, or managing challenging student scenarios.
-
ACPE-accredited programs: CE activities offered by CEimpact, IPA, or other accredited providers.
Documentation and Compliance
Preceptors must document their CE hours and submit proof to Drake’s College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. This ensures compliance with ACPE standards and maintains active preceptor status. Documentation is typically submitted through CORE ELMS, where preceptors also manage student evaluations and rotation schedules.
How to Meet CE Requirements
Drake University makes it easy for preceptors to fulfill CE requirements through structured support and accessible resources. Here’s how preceptors can stay compliant:
Utilize CEimpact and IPA Resources
Drake partners with CEimpact and the Iowa Pharmacy Association to offer tailored CE programs. CEimpact provides online courses, webinars, and a preceptor newsletter with updates on best practices. IPA offers workshops and networking events where preceptors can earn CE credits while connecting with peers. These resources cover topics like experiential education, student mentoring, and advancements in pharmacy practice.
Attend Drake-Sponsored Events
Drake’s College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences hosts live and virtual events, such as preceptor development workshops and regional training sessions. These events focus on enhancing teaching skills, understanding student needs, and aligning with ACPE standards. Preceptors can earn CE credits while gaining practical tools to improve their mentorship.
Complete Online Training Modules
For flexibility, preceptors can access recorded CE modules through CEimpact or Drake’s experiential education portal. These modules cover topics like effective feedback, cultural sensitivity, and interprofessional collaboration. Online training allows preceptors to learn at their own pace while earning required CE hours.
Engage in Practice-Based Learning
Preceptors can also earn CE credits through practice-based activities, such as precepting students during IPPE or APPE rotations. These experiences provide opportunities to apply new knowledge and refine teaching skills. Preceptors should document these activities as part of their CE portfolio.
Benefits of Being a Drake Preceptor
Serving as a preceptor at Drake University offers professional and personal rewards. By meeting CE requirements, preceptors gain:
-
Enhanced expertise: Staying updated on pharmacy trends and teaching methods.
-
Professional growth: Developing leadership and mentoring skills.
-
Networking opportunities: Connecting with other pharmacists and educators through CE events.
-
Student impact: Shaping the next generation of pharmacists with practical, real-world guidance.
Challenges and Solutions for Preceptors
Precepting can be demanding, with challenges like increased workload or managing students who need extra support. A 2024 study found that some adjunct preceptors reported stress due to these factors. Drake addresses these challenges by:
-
Offering robust CE programs to improve precepting skills.
-
Providing access to CORE ELMS for streamlined documentation.
-
Encouraging preceptors to seek support from the Office of Experiential Education at exp.cphs@drake.edu or (515) 271-3191.
By leveraging these resources, preceptors can overcome obstacles and maintain a positive mentoring experience.
How to Become a Drake Preceptor
Interested pharmacists can become preceptors by contacting Drake’s Office of Experiential Education. The process involves:
-
Completing the preceptor form on CORE ELMS using the code DRAKEUPHARMPRECEPTOR.
-
Submitting a CV and optional professional photo for the preceptor profile.
-
Completing the initial Preceptor Orientation training.
Drake welcomes preceptors from various practice settings, including community pharmacies, hospitals, and ambulatory care clinics. The university provides ongoing support to ensure preceptors are prepared for their role.
Conclusion
drake university pharmacy preceptor continuing education requirements ensure that mentors deliver high-quality, hands-on training to PharmD students. By completing initial training and ongoing CE, preceptors stay current in pharmacy practice and teaching methods. Drake supports its preceptors with accessible resources, including CEimpact, IPA programs, and university-sponsored events. Becoming a preceptor at Drake is a valuable opportunity to grow professionally while shaping the future of pharmacy. For more information, contact the Office of Experiential Education at exp.cphs@drake.edu or (515) 271-3191.
FAQs
How many CE hours do Drake pharmacy preceptors need?
Preceptors must complete at least 15 CE hours every two years, with 3 hours focused on preceptor development.
Where can I find CE programs for Drake preceptors?
Drake partners with CEimpact and the Iowa Pharmacy Association to offer online courses, webinars, and live workshops. Check the Office of Experiential Education for updates.
How do I document my CE hours for Drake?
Submit proof of CE hours through CORE ELMS, Drake’s experiential learning management system, to maintain active preceptor status.
What support does Drake offer for new preceptors?
Drake provides initial Preceptor Orientation training, ongoing CE resources, and access to the Office of Experiential Education for guidance.
