Faculty of Pharmacy - Clinical Pharmacy
The Department of Clinical Pharmacy at the Faculty of Pharmacy, British International University (BIU), is dedicated to fostering the integration of clinical knowledge and pharmaceutical care. This department plays a pivotal role in preparing pharmacy students to function effectively in clinical settings, where they apply their expertise in medication management to optimize patient outcomes.
Duration: The Clinical Pharmacy curriculum is incorporated throughout the Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) program, with dedicated courses focusing on clinical practice, patient management, and therapeutic decision-making. This structure ensures that students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in clinical settings.
Language of Instruction: All courses within the Department of Clinical Pharmacy are conducted in English, facilitating access to contemporary research, clinical guidelines, and international best practices in pharmacy.
The curriculum in the Department of Clinical Pharmacy encompasses several key areas:
Pharmaceutical Care: This component emphasizes the role of the pharmacist as a healthcare provider, focusing on the principles of pharmaceutical care, which includes assessing patients’ medication needs, developing care plans, and monitoring therapeutic outcomes. Students learn to collaborate with healthcare teams to ensure comprehensive patient care.
Therapeutics: Students are trained in evidence-based therapeutics, which involves the application of clinical guidelines and research findings to the selection of appropriate medications for various health conditions. This includes understanding pharmacotherapy for chronic diseases, infectious diseases, and other prevalent medical conditions.
Patient Assessment: This area of study includes techniques for conducting thorough patient assessments, including taking medication histories, evaluating drug interactions, and recognizing potential adverse effects. Students develop skills necessary for effective patient counseling and education.
Clinical Rotations: Practical experience is a cornerstone of the Clinical Pharmacy program. Students participate in clinical rotations in various healthcare settings, including hospitals and community pharmacies. These rotations provide hands-on experience in patient care, medication therapy management, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
The Department of Clinical Pharmacy encourages student involvement in clinical research initiatives. Students may engage in projects that explore medication safety, adherence to therapy, pharmacovigilance, and health outcomes. Participation in research activities enhances critical thinking and prepares students for potential future roles in clinical research and academia.
The knowledge and skills acquired through the Clinical Pharmacy curriculum are essential for the evolving role of pharmacists in modern healthcare. By emphasizing the importance of patient-centered care, clinical decision-making, and interprofessional collaboration, the department prepares graduates to contribute meaningfully to the healthcare team. This foundation is critical for addressing complex medication-related issues, improving patient adherence, and ultimately enhancing the quality of healthcare delivery.