doctor of pharmacy

PHARMD PROGRAMME

HANDBOOK

FACULTY OF MEDICAL SCIENCES

ENTRY LEVEL DOCTOR OF PHARMACY

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction 1

The Faculty of Medical Sciences 2

Relationship of the PharmD Programme to the University’s Mission

Overview of the curriculum

4

Admission Criteria, Assessment & Examinations, Regulations 6 Student Responsibilities

Identification cards and name tags

Dress code

Attendance and punctuality

Laboratory activities

Seminar and group work

Oral presentations

Professional etiquette

17 17 17 18 18 18 19 19

The Curriculum 21 Is there life after lectures 42

Managing your time effectively 42

Study Skills

How to learn from lectures

Making notes

Studying on your own

Getting the most from your reading

Examination Strategies

Oral Examination

Coping with stress

When and where to go for help

Academic Advisors

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43

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45

45

46

46

Health Matters

Medical certificate of illness

Serious communicable diseases

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47

47

Other Sources of Information 49

Other FMS Facilities 51

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INTRODUCTION

The pharmacy handbook was compiled to help students who are entering the undergraduate

programme in Pharmacy (Entry Level Doctor of Pharmacy) at the Mona Campus to settle into

University life as quickly and as smoothly as possible. It includes an overview of the curriculum,

some guidelines about learning and assessment and advice about coping with stress. It has been

written by members of the academic staff with feedback from students. For many of you, this

will be your first taste of university life, and even for those of you who are coming from other

institutes of higher education, this will be an experience unlike anything you have had before.

We hope that you find the contents interesting and useful as you begin your educational journey.

Please find the time to read it now and keep it handy as there are several sections of the booklet

that you may find helpful at a later date. To send comments or suggestions on the contents of

this handbook or for more information, send email to [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

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The Faculty of Medical Sciences

History

The Faculty of Medical Sciences includes the Department of Basic Medical Sciences housing the

Sections of Anatomy, Biochemistry, Pharmacology and Physiology; Dental Surgery, The

Department of Community Health & Psychiatry; the UWI School of Nursing and the other

clinical departments, located at the University Hospital of the West Indies. These include:

Medicine; Microbiology; Obstetrics and Gynaecology; Child & Adolescent Health; Pathology;

and Surgery, Radiology, Anaesthesia & Intensive Care.

The Office of the Dean with its Section of Undergraduate Affairs and the principal teaching

hospital, The University Hospital of the West Indies are situated at the northern perimeter of

the campus less than 1km from the University administration buildings.

A list of Department Heads and Officers of the Faculty can be found in the appendix at the

end of this booklet. Further information on the history of the Faculty and the University of the

West Indies can be found in:

“The University of the West Indies – A Caribbean Response to the Challenge of Change”, Sherlock

and Nettleford (1990) McMillan Publishers, London

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The Mona Campus

Our University Campus is located in Northern Kingston and encompasses 653 acres of land that

were formally part of two large estates, Papine and Mona. Scattered throughout the campus

are the famous historic ruins of a Roman-style aqueduct, water wheel, and other remnants of

the sugar works that once stood on the site. The campus is nestled in a valley embraced by

Long Mountain to the south and the southernmost peaks of the Blue Mountain Range to the

north. The UWI Campus is perhaps one of the most scenic areas in Kingston, with the

surrounding mountains providing a verdant backdrop, which enhances the serene atmosphere

of the campus.*

* see also “University of the West Indies Mona Campus – An Historical Guide” (UWI Publication)

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Relationship of the Pharmacy Programme to the University’s Mission:

Consistent with the university’s mission to unlock West Indian Potential for economic and

cultural growth, the Pharm.D. Programme was introduced to the Mona Campus as the newest

programme out of the Faculty of Medical Sciences.

The Pharm.D. will produce graduates who will significantly enhance the well-being of West Indian

people, and by their ability to provide effective pharmaceutical care, they will significantly impact

public health and reduce health care costs in the West Indies. Additionally, the Pharm.D

Programme is in accordance with the university’s transformation plan, which seeks to identify

courses that are more meaningful to the development of the region.

On completion of this programme students will be able to:

Utilize their extensive basic sciences knowledge and apply it to the resolution of

therapeutic problems in the provision of effective patient-centred pharmaceutical care.

Actively participate in the design of health and wellness programmes which are designed

to enhance the quality of life of individuals and communities.

Exhibit exquisite critical thinking skills in the resolution of a variety of therapeutic

problems.

Effectively communicate to all stakeholders of the health care system.

Interact with all stakeholders of the health care system with consummate respect and

empathy.

Demonstrate a zeal for life-long learning and professional development.

Exhibit ethical behaviour; and

Exude professionalism.

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Overview of the Curriculum In July 2015, the OBUS approved a new undergraduate pharmacy curriculum at Mona. This

curriculum was developed in response to the changing needs of pharmacy and society globally and

because of new demands on the modern pharmacy graduate.

The Pharm.D. Programme is a five year full-time face to face programme and is followed by twelve

months devoted to supervised internship through the Pharmacy Council before they become eligible

for full registration to practice. The pre-clinical (mainly didactic) component is designed to be

completed in three years and the fourth and fifth years (clinical component) are mostly devoted

to experiential education, where students obtain extensive hands-on clinical experiences in a

variety of pharmacy practice settings, in addition to completing a few clinically relevant didactic

courses.

The courses have been organized to encourage integration of the basic medical sciences and the

clinical disciplines. The curriculum places greater responsibility on you, the learner. The approach to

teaching and learning is deliberately designed to be more student-centred, because we wish to

encourage you to become a life-long learner, even in situations in which you are not supervised.

The Curriculum Committee, which includes student representation, has established an

administrative structure with provisions for conducting regular evaluation and making appropriate

modifications as indicated.

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Admission Criteria, Assessment and Examinations, Regulations

PROFICIENCY IN ENGLISH

Persons applying to enter undergraduate degree programmes at the University of the West

Indies, Mona are required to sit the English Language Proficiency Test set by the University.

Only persons who are successful in this test or who have been granted exemption will be

considered for entry into the degree programme at Mona.

For information on this test, including requests for exemption, applicants are asked to check

with the Admissions Section of the Registry.

REGULATIONS FOR THE DOCTOR OF PHARMACY DEGREE PROGRAMME

1. Entry Requirements

Applicants must normally have attained a minimum age of 18 years at the commencement of the

academic year of entry to the Doctor of Pharmacy programme.

Applicants must submit their applications to the Senior Assistant Registrar, Student Affairs, The

University of the West Indies, Mona, Kingston 7, Jamaica, by the end of the second week of

January each year. For procedures concerning applications and for further information

candidates should write to the Senior Assistant Registrar, Student Affairs.

Applicants required to withdraw from the Faculty for failing to complete the Doctor of Pharmacy

Degree Programme within the stipulated time or because of poor performance may be

considered for readmission to the Doctor of Pharmacy Programme, after at least one year has

elapsed since their withdrawal.

2. Qualifications for Admission

Applicants who wish to begin the degree programme must fulfil the general University

regulations concerning matriculation and, in addition, the specific requirements of the Faculty

set out below.

The academic admission to the Doctor of Pharmacy Degree Programme is based on the

applicant’s proficiency and attainment in any of the following, hereinafter referred to as

"approved examinations"

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• Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE)/General Certificate of Education

Advanced (“A”) Level Examinations or their equivalent.

• UWI Preliminary or Introductory Level Courses in the appropriate subjects in the Faculty

of Pure and Applied Sciences (Mona), the Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences (Cave Hill),

the Faculty of Medical Sciences, St. Augustine, or the Faculty of Science and Agriculture

(St. Augustine)

• Programme/Courses which are considered equivalent at institutions recognized by the

University of the West Indies

The applicant must have obtained three (3) passes in the approved examinations including

Biology/Zoology and Chemistry. The third subject can be Physics, Mathematics or any other

approved subject including one from the humanities or social sciences provided that passes have

also been obtained in Physics and Mathematics at the CSEC(CXC) or GCE O Level. The minimum

academic standard for entry is an average of two 3’s and one 2 at Unit 2 CAPE or one B and two

C’s at GCE Advanced Level.

Students currently studying at UWI in the Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences (Mona), the

Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences (Cave Hill), the Faculty of Medical Sciences, St. Augustine,

or the Faculty of Science and Agriculture, St. Augustine seeking to be transferred to the Doctor

of Pharmacy Degree Programme shall only be considered from the Preliminary and/or

Introductory level courses. All such students must complete and submit a Transfer Form by the

end of the second week of January in the calendar year of proposed entry.

Applicants holding UWI first degrees in the natural sciences with a minimum of lower second

class honours may be considered for entry.

Applicants holding professional degrees in Allied Health disciplines may also be considered for

entry provided that they have attained a minimum average grade of B+ or grade point of 3.3 in

the appropriate science subjects during their degree programme or Grade 3 passes in

Biology/Zoology and Chemistry at Unit 2 CAPE /A Level or equivalent.

Applicants holding degrees other than degrees in the natural sciences may also be considered

provided that they have attained a minimum average grade of B+ or grade point of 3.3 in the

appropriate science subjects during their university programme or Grade 3 passes in

Biology/Zoology and Chemistry at Unit 2 CAPE/A Level or equivalent.

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Applicants with first degrees from institutions other than the UWI shall also be eligible provided

that:

The programme of study has been accredited by a relevant body or agency and is

considered acceptable by the UWI.

Credits have been obtained in Biology/Zoology and Chemistry

A minimum grade point average of 3.0 or its equivalent has been obtained.

Applicants who have earned a BSc in Pharmacy Degree from the University of Technology

(UTECH) in Jamaica or the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus, will be considered

for admission at the fourth year level of the proposed Pharm.D. Programme. Therefore,

pharmacy graduates of UTECH and UWI, St. Augustine will be eligible for advanced standing in

the proposed Pharm.D. Programme

Non-Academic Considerations

All applicants are required to submit a short 250 - 300 word autobiographical summary outlining

the reasons for their career choice.

An applicant’s chances of entry will be enhanced by documented and certified involvement in

extracurricular activities in the years prior to his/her application.

Each activity should be listed on the application form and must be accompanied by

original letters of certification from principals, supervisors or employers for each

activity. Both the duration of involvement and the level of responsibility of the

applicant in each activity shall be taken into consideration and certifying documents

must state these clearly.

In considering these activities, the University places emphasis on applicant’s

voluntary participation in community/social projects although consideration shall

also be given to other extracurricular activities, experiences and abilities (such as

music, sports, drama, and debating or proficiency in a foreign language).

Applicants will be required to attend an interview.

3. Registration

Registration for courses takes place during the first week of the first semester of each academic

year. Please note that the registration of a student is not complete until the appropriate tuition

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and other fees have been paid in respect of that student or arrangements acceptable to the

Campus Principal have been made with respect to the payment of such fees.

4. Programme of Study

The programme for the Doctor of Pharmacy Degree lasts for five years and consists of two stages:

Pre-clinical phase (mostly didactic component; 3 years); and

Clinical Phase (mostly experiential component; 2 years).

Both stages consist of courses or clerkships in which are included lectures, conferences, seminars, tutorials, self-study, the use of learning aids (including information technology), practicals and demonstrations including clinical bedside teaching. However, the clinical (experiential) component is mostly clinical rotations.

The student’s progress in each course or clerkship is assessed on the basis of his or her performance in a combination of course-work and written, practical, clinical and oral examinations. The pre-clinical component spans the first three years and consists of a series of courses with assigned credit values. In order to advance into each year of the programme, students must be in compliance with the progression rules for the Doctor of Pharmacy programme (see UNIVERSITY ENTRY LEVEL DOCTOR OF PHARMACY REGULATIONS 9.7 and 9.8)

After completion of the first three years (pre-clinical phase), students will be granted the BSc Degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences.

The clinical component comprises the final two years and are made up primarily of a series of

advanced pharmacy practice experiences (APPEs), in addition to a few clinically relevant didactic

courses.

After completion of the clinical phase (years 4 and 5) the Doctor of Pharmacy degree is awarded at the level of a Pass, Honours, or Honours with Distinction on satisfactory completion of the programme.

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5. Exemptions An applicant who has completed a course and passed an examination from another recognized university in a subject which forms a part or the whole of an analogous subject in Doctor of Pharmacy Degree programme may apply to the Academic Board, through the Dean, for exemption and credit. The Academic Board shall make a decision on the matter after considering the recommendation of the Faculty Board which shall take into account the syllabus, the nature and duration of the course, the person’s grading in examinations in the course, the time which has elapsed since the course was completed and, in particular, whether it is analogous in whole or in part to that offered in this University.

The Faculty Board shall make one of the following recommendations to the Academic Board, indicating the reasons for the recommendation: (a) that the application be rejected; or (b) that the applicant be exempted from a part or the whole of the subject, but be required to take a part of or the full examination; or (c) that the applicant be exempted both from the course and the examination and credited with the course. Exemption and credit shall not normally be granted to applicants who have been asked to withdraw and are re-admitted to the Faculty for whatever reason after a lapse of more than two years.

6. Examinations – General aspects

The procedures and regulations for student assessment in the Faculty of Medical Sciences are

governed by the general University regulations for examinations which can be obtained on

request from the Examinations Section of the Registry.

Registration for a course constitutes registration for the examination in that course. Registration

for courses in both stages takes place during the first week of the first semester of each academic

year.

The candidate must attempt, at the same sitting, all required Parts, Sections or Components of the Examinations for which he or she has been registered.

A candidate must attend all the written, practical, clinical and oral sections of the Examinations for which he or she has registered, and that are applicable in his or her case.

A candidate who fails to attend any written, practical, clinical or oral section of any Examination for which he or she has registered and that is applicable in his or her case shall be recorded as

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having failed the Examination. (Regulations governing absence due to illness can be found in the general University regulations governing examinations). A candidate who fails any required examination on his or her first attempt shall be required to sit the examination at the next available opportunity, unless otherwise decided by the Academic Board, Mona, on the recommendation of the Board of Examiners and the Faculty Board. A candidate who applies to re-sit an examination must attempt all the required sections or components of the Examination at the same sitting. A candidate may be awarded a pass, honours or honours with distinction, depending on the standard that he or she has attained during the programme, provided that honours or honours with distinction will be awarded only in the case of his or her first attempt at the final examinations in courses. Candidates shall be notified of the results of examinations as soon as possible, subject to ratification by the Board for Undergraduate Studies.

7. Unsatisfactory performance

In the Doctor of Pharmacy Degree Programme, a student’s performance is considered unsatisfactory if he or she displays either poor academic performance or unprofessional behaviour.

A student’s academic performance is considered unsatisfactory if he/she has failed any form of assessment, examination or on-going evaluation in any specified course, clerkship or learning unit which is a required component of the Doctor of Pharmacy Programme. A student’s behaviour is considered unprofessional if he/she displays inappropriate or unethical behaviour in his/her interpersonal contacts especially in relation to patients or their families, colleagues, or members of the University or hospital staff.

Where unsatisfactory performance is felt to be serious or is, for any other reason, considered to

be a cause for concern, the matter should be reported in writing to the Dean and copied to the

candidate.

The student shall be given an appointment to be interviewed by the Dean or the Dean’s nominee

who shall arrange for appropriate remedial action to assist the candidate, followed by re-

evaluation.

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A student who fails to attend the interview or to participate in the remedial measures or the re-evaluation may be barred by the Academic Board, on the recommendation of the Faculty Board, from continuing in the programme. The Faculty Board shall consider a written report on the result of the remedial action and shall make a recommendation to the Academic Board as to whether or not the student may proceed to the next phase of the programme at that time. Where poor academic performance is repetitive or where unprofessional misconduct is serious, the Dean shall convene a committee to examine the case and to provide a report to the Faculty Board. The committee shall include staff members from at least three different Departments. The student concerned shall be given an opportunity to be heard and may be accompanied by another member of the student body selected by the candidate. The Faculty Board shall consider the report of the committee and may make a determination that no further action is required or may submit the matter to the Academic Board for its decision, with a recommendation as to the measures to be taken. Such measures may include:

further remedial measures (which may include professional counselling)

leave of absence for a period of up to one year

withdrawal from the Doctor of Pharmacy programme.

The decision of the Academic Board or the Faculty Board, as the case may be, shall be conveyed

to the student in writing and the student shall have the right to appeal the decision by application

to the Board for Undergraduate Studies and Senate as appropriate.

8. Pre-Clinical Phase of the Doctor of Pharmacy Programme-Courses

The pre-clinical component courses extend over the first three years and comprise a series of

courses which integrate the disciplines of Chemistry, Human Anatomy, Biochemistry, Physiology,

Pharmaceutics, Medicinal Chemistry, Pathology, Microbiology, Immunology, Pharmacokinetics,

Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, and include early exposure to pharmacy practice

experiences.

In addition to the prescribed didactic courses, the candidate is required to follow and complete

9 credits in the following University Foundation Courses.

• English for Academic Purposes, Humanities and Social Sciences

In order to proceed to the clinical component, students are required to successfully complete all

prescribed courses during year-01 to year-03, inclusive of the three Foundation courses.

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9. Didactic component - Assessment & Examinations

The courses and clerkships that make up the didactic component of the Programme are assigned

a credit value and are assessed by a combination of course work, written, practical and clinical

examinations.

With the exceptions noted in Regulation 5 (Exemptions) candidates are required to complete and pass all prescribed didactic courses of study before proceeding to the experiential component. On the basis of performance in the didactic courses, candidates shall be assigned a grade point average (GPA). The grades from Foundation courses and courses designated as pass/fail shall not be included in the calculation of the GPA.

Candidates shall normally be required to maintain a GPA of 2.0 or above.

Candidates whose cumulative GPA consistently falls below 2.0 may be required to withdraw from the programme by the Academic Board on the recommendation of the Faculty Board. A candidate who has not obtained the required number of credits by passing all the prescribed courses or whose grade point average is less than 2.0 shall not be permitted to proceed to the experiential component of the programme. At the end of year 1 and at the end of year 2, students shall be permitted to year 2 or year 3, as the case may be, only if the credit value of failed courses in the year ended does not exceed a total of nine (9) credits.

Candidates who fail any course shall be assigned an F (0.0 quality points) which shall be recorded

on their transcript.

Students assigned an F grade for any course shall be required to re-sit the examination for that course at the next available opportunity. Students who are required to repeat a failed course shall normally be allowed a maximum of two further attempts at that failed course. Students who do not pass a failed course after a total of three attempts shall normally be required to withdraw from the programme by the Academic Board on the recommendation of the Faculty Board. Students who repeat and pass a course subsequent to any failed attempt shall be assigned a maximum of a C grade for the successful result. Students shall retain all F grades assigned for failed courses on their academic record (transcript).

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The GPA of students who subsequently pass failed courses within the stipulated time, will however be recalculated using the passing grade of C. Students must complete the programme within seven years. Students who fail to complete the programme within this time may be asked to withdraw from the programme by the Academic Board on the recommendation of the Faculty Board, except in a case where the Academic Board has approved an extension of this period. Students who are required to withdraw from the programme may apply to be considered for re-entry after one (1) year has elapsed since their withdrawal.

10. Clinical component Students are required to satisfactorily complete all prescribed pre-clinical courses of study and pass all course examinations before entry to the clinical component, unless exemptions (see Regulation 5 above) apply.

The clinical component spans at least 2 years and includes Advanced Pharmacy Practice

Experiences in the following subjects: Ambulatory Care; Community Pharmacy,

Hospital/Institutional Pharmacy, Internal Medicine, Acute Patient Care I & II, Selectives I & II, and

an elective, as well as a few clinically relevant didactic courses, such as Health Care

Administration I & II, Pharmacotherapy II & III, and Clinical Pharmacy IV, V, & VI, Patient Care

Management I & II, and Pharmacy Law and Ethics II.

Student performance in each of the prescribed experience shall be assessed by a combination of continuous assessment and by end-of-experience written, clinical/practical and oral examinations. Students shall be assigned a grade point average (GPA) on the basis of performance in the didactic and experiential courses and examinations. The grades from University Foundation courses shall not be included in the calculation of the GPA. Students shall normally be required to maintain a GPA of 2.0 or above. Students whose GPA fall below 2.0 at the end of Year 4 may be required to withdraw from the programme. Students in year 4 shall be permitted to proceed into the subsequent year only if the credit value of failed courses in year 4 does not exceed a total of nine (9) credits. Students who fail any core course/clerkship shall be assigned an F (0.0 quality points) which shall be recorded on their transcript.

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Students assigned an F grade for any course/clerkship shall be required to repeat the assessment for that course/clerkship at the next available opportunity. Details of the courses may be obtained from the Faculty Office. Students who are required to repeat a failed course/clerkship shall normally be allowed a maximum of two further attempts. Students who do not pass a failed course/clerkship after a total of three attempts may be required to withdraw from the programme. Students who repeat and pass a course/clerkship subsequent to any failed attempt shall be assigned a maximum grade of C for the successful result. The academic record (transcript) of students shall retain all F grades assigned for courses/clerkships failed. Provided that the failed course/clerkship is passed within eighteen months of completing the course/clerkship, the GPA for the student shall be recalculated using the new passing grade of C. A student whose performance in any course or clerkship is considered unsatisfactory (see

Regulation 7 above) on the basis of on-going or examination performance shall be required to

repeat the course/clerkship and/or the examination. Repetition of any part of the course may

necessitate a delay in completion of the overall programme.

The Doctor of Pharmacy Degree shall be awarded at Pass, Honours, or Honours with Distinction

level, depending upon the standard reached in the examination and in the continuous

assessment. At the discretion of the examiners, candidates who are being considered for Honours

with Distinction or who have obtained borderline failing grades may be invited to attend an oral

examination, after which a final grade shall be awarded.

11. Award of the Doctor of Pharmacy Degree

A candidate is eligible for the award of the Doctor of Pharmacy Degree following satisfactory completion of the programme, including the required University Foundation Courses. The category of Degree awarded to an individual candidate is based on the candidate’s cumulative GPA for the 5-year programme. (The GPA required by the Faculty for the award of each of the various categories of Doctor of Pharmacy Degree is provided below)

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A candidate shall be awarded the Doctor of Pharmacy Degree at Honours or Honours with

Distinction level only if he or she passes all prescribed courses/clerkships at the first attempt.

Category of Degree Description Grade Point Average

Honours Degree with Distinction

Demonstrates an outstanding and comprehensive grasp of the knowledge, skills and competencies required

3.7 and above

Honours Degree Demonstrates an excellent grasp of the knowledge, skills and competencies required

3.3-3.6

Pass Demonstrates a satisfactory grasp of the knowledge, skills and competencies required

2.0-3.2

After the Board for Undergraduate Studies has approved the pass list for the final year-05

Examinations, the Doctor of Pharmacy Degree shall be awarded to each successful candidate.

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Student Responsibilities

Identification Cards and Name Tags

Each student must have a valid personal identification card in order to have access to the facilities

of the University. Identification cards are obtained from the relevant UWI Administration

(Student Registration) Office. These should be worn when attending classes and ward rounds at

the hospital and when carrying out official duties.

Dress Code

In the Pharmacy curriculum, you may encounter patients early in your programme. The public

has expectations of a clinical pharmacist and, in these circumstances, you will be regarded as a

member of the health care team. It is important therefore that you dress (and behave) at all times

in a manner which will identify you as a member of the profession and allow patients to feel

comfortable in your presence.

Students attending classes at all training sites, classroom and clinics are required to conform to

the dress code outlined below:

The official dress code, which includes the wearing of oxford shirts with the University

Logo and tailored pants/skirts (knee length) starting year 2 will be required by all students.

The oxford shirt design and colours are guided by the faculty and will be ordered upon

request.

The tailored pants/skirts colours can be dark blue, khaki, grey or black in colour.

The closed shoes for both men and women may be dark blue, black, brown, grey or nude

with socks or stockings.

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Additionally, a hip-length white coat (at least 6 inches below the waist) will be required

for all clinical practice settings/attachments. In years 4 and 5 white coats are mandatory

with name tags and IDs.

This has been developed by the Faculty Administration and will require compliance by all

students. The details of this can be obtained from the Faculty executive.

You are required to adhere to this code. In any event, whether you are attending lectures or

visiting patients, you should always appear neat and tidy, wearing reasonably smart, but

appropriate clothing. Being a clinical pharmacy student should always be a matter of pride to

you.

Attendance & Punctuality

It is to your advantage to attend all lectures, laboratory sessions, ward rounds, field trips and

other teaching/learning activities. Punctuality is expected. In certain courses and clinical

clerkships, it is mandatory for you to attend a fixed proportion of classes as a requirement for

passing the course or the clerkship.

It is very important that students who are doing remedial courses seek and follow all instructions

concerning requirements for attending remedial sessions prior to repeat examinations.

Laboratory Activities

Laboratory sessions involve learning by doing. They are compulsory and should complement

your reading and help you to understand and apply the theory. Try as much as possible to

decide ahead of time what you need to get out of each session, and to know what you're doing

and why.

Seminars and group work

In your curriculum, you will spend a lot of your time working in groups. These groups will vary in

size, and are sometimes, but not always, led by a tutor. One of the objectives of pharmacy

training is to assist you to work effectively as a member of a team - a critical skill for your future

in the profession.

There are many benefits to be derived from working in a group. Among other things, it helps you

develop good communication skills and some of the 'higher order' thinking skills, such as

reasoning and analyzing. It also promotes collective thinking and teaches you to value the views

of others.

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Group discussion can be stimulating and challenging, but a group session will only work if people

are able and willing to contribute. Effective group work is most likely to occur when members are

well prepared, share a common purpose and are willing to interact openly with one another.

People often feel inhibited about contributing to a group discussion because they feel that

everyone else is smarter and more articulate than they are. However, the others are probably far

less concerned about what you say than what they say because they are worrying about what

you’ll think of them. Remember it is a joint discussion.

Don’t seat yourself outside the group - you need to be able to see everyone's face and to hear

what they're saying. Be prepared to listen and if you don't understand what’s going on, say so.

The chances are that everyone else is thinking the same thing. Being able to work well in groups

is an important skill and it will help if you can gain an understanding of what makes them work

effectively.

Oral presentations

There will be times during the programme when you will be called upon to make a formal oral

presentation and in some cases, these will form a part of your assessment. Presentation skills are

an important area of communication in pharmacy practice, and have assumed an increasingly

significant place in Pharmacy training.

Professional Etiquette

General Deportment

Every student in the Faculty of Medical Sciences is expected to carry himself or herself with the

dignity and integrity befitting the profession that you represent. This applies both within and

outside of the University environs.

Confidentiality

In the course of your duties, patients will inevitably share personal information with you. Patients

have a right to expect that you will not disclose any such information, unless the patient gives

you explicit permission to do so.

Without assurances about confidentiality, patients may be reluctant to give pharmacy students

(and pharmacists) the information they need to understand how to provide good care. Moreover,

the reputation of the health profession may be tarnished by un-confidential behaviour of any of

its members. For these reasons:

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When you are privy to confidential information, you must make sure that the information

is effectively protected against improper disclosure when it is stored, transmitted,

received or otherwise disposed of;

When a patient gives consent to disclosure of information about him or her, you must

make sure that the person understands what will be disclosed, the reasons for the

disclosure and the likely consequences;

You must make sure that patients are informed whenever information about them is

likely to be disclosed to others involved in their health care, and that they have the

opportunity to withhold permission, where appropriate;

You must respect requests by patients that information should not be disclosed to third

parties, save in defined exceptional circumstances (for example, where the health or

safety of others would otherwise be at serious risk);

If you disclose confidential information you should release only as much information as is

necessary for the purpose;

If in doubt about the practice of confidentiality, do not hesitate to discuss the matter with

one of your lecturers or with another professional person.

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THE CURRICULUM

Mode of Delivery

The courses will be delivered through face to face didactic lectures, laboratory demonstrations,

audio and video demonstrations and clinical experiences.

Library Facilities

The following books are available in either the Main, Science or Medical libraries (Mona

catalogue) and will be part of the recommended reading for students:

Texts:

Bertram G. Katzung. Basic & clinical pharmacology. 2007. London :McGraw-Hill

Goodman & Gilman's the pharmacological basis of therapeutics. 2006. New York:

McGraw-Hill

Clive Page. Integrated pharmacology. 2006. Elsevier Mosby

David E. Golan. Principles of Pharmacology: the pathophysiologic basis of drug therapy

2006. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins

Charles R. Craig, Robert E. Stitzel. Modern pharmacology with clinical applications. 2004.

Lippincott Williams & Wilkins

P.N. Bennett and M.J. Brown. Clinical pharmacology. 2003. Edinburgh :Churchill

Livingstone,

Rang & Dale. Pharmacology. 2012. New York: Churchill Livingstone.

Journals

Many Pharmacology/Pharmacy Journals are available through the library as hardcopy, online,

loan/purchase from collaborating institutions.

Drug Information and Pharmacovigilance Unit

Additionally, the new Pharm.D. Programme will enjoy resource support from a modest Drug

Information and Pharmacovigilance Unit. This unit will have electronic access to several

pharmacy-related journals and databases, as well as some hard copy journals, as outlined in the

list below.

22

CURRICUM OUTLINE STAGE 1_PRE-CLINICAL

YEAR 01

August (weeks 3-4) Semester 1[20 credits]Sep-Dec

3 W

EE

KS

SE

ME

ST

ER

BR

EA

K

Semester 2[20 credits]Jan-May

2 W

EE

KS

SE

ME

ST

ER

BR

EA

K

Summer Semester 3 [6 credits] Jun-Jul

Freshman’s week (all programmes)

Registration

Welcome ceremony

Campus Tours

Dean’s Reception

International Student Programme

CHEM1901 Introductory Chemistry A with lab [6]

PHYL 1010 Human Physiology(yr long)[0]

BAMS1010 Introduction to Anatomy and General Histology and Embryology [3]

BIOC1020 Cellular Biochemistry [3]

BIOC1021 Practical Biochemistry [2]

FOUN 1001 English for Academic Purposes [3]

PSYC1000 Psychology [3]

CHEM1902Introductory Chemistry B with lab [6]

PHYL 1010 Human Physiology (yr. long) [6]

MICR1010 Introductory Microbiology and Molecular Biology [3]

MICR1011 Practical Microbiology and Molecular Biology [2]

ECON1000 Principles of Economics [3]

PHAR 1000 Profession of Pharmacy [2]

PHAR2002 Pharmacokinetics [4]

YEAR 02

Semester 4 [20 credits] Sep-Dec

3 W

EE

KS

SE

ME

ST

ER

BR

EA

K

Semester 5 [18 credits] Jan-May

3 W

EE

KS

S

EM

ES

TE

R

BR

EA

K

Summer Semester 6 [4 credits]

Jun-Jul

PHAR 2004 Pharmaceutics I with Lab [6]

PHAR 2000 Organic Chemistry I for Health Care Majors[4]

PHAR 2006 Pathophysiology I [4]

BAMS 2813 Biostatistics and Research Methods [3]

Foundation Elective (Humanities)[3]

Humanities options can be: Art, foreign language, music, philosophy, religion or literature.

PHAR 2012 Pharmaceutics II with Lab [6]

PHAR 2016 Clinical Pharmacy I: Medical Terminology & Calculations [4]

PHAR 2008 Organic Chemistry II for Health Care Majors[4]

PHAR 2014 Pathophysiology II [4]

4-WEEK ROTATION Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experience (IPPE)

PHAR 2030 IPPE I Community Pharmacy

YEAR 03

Semester 7[19 credits] Sep-Dec

3 w

ee

ks

se

me

ste

r b

rea

k Semester 8[20 credits] Jan-Dec

3 w

ee

ks

se

me

ste

r b

rea

k Summer Semester 9 [12 credits]

Jun-Jul

PHAR 3000 Medicinal Chemistry I[4]

PHAR 3010 Pharmacology I[4]

PHAR 3008 Pharmacy Law and Ethics I[4]

PHAR 3006Clinical Pharmacy II: Interpretation of Lab Values[4]

ZOOL 3406 Immunology[3]

PHAR 3012 Medicinal Chemistry II [4]

PHAR 3014 Pharmacology II [4]

PHAR3018 Clinical Pharmacy III:Communications in Patient Care[4]

PHAR 3020 Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacokinetics[4]

PHAR 3016Pharmacotherapy I[4]

PHAR 3004Toxicology[4]

PHAR 3022 Pharmaceutical Sales and Marketing Operation [4]

4-WEEK ROTATION Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experience (IPPE)

PHAR 3030 IPPE II: Hospital/Institutional Pharmacy[4]

23

Please note: i. Selectives can be chosen from: Pediatric Pharmacy, Geriatric Pharmacy, Nuclear Pharmacy, Home Infusion, or Drug Information

ii. Electives can be chosen from: Hospital/Administration Pharmacy, Industrial Pharmacy, Compounding Pharmacy, Academic Pharmacy, Community Pharmacy; Oncology, Social and Administrative Pharmacy, or Psychiatry

iii. The number in the brackets next to each course indicates the number of credits iv. Information contained in the timetable is subject to change

CURRICUM STAGE 2 CLINICAL

YEAR 04

Semester 10 [20 credits] Sep-Dec

3 w

ee

ks

se

me

ste

r b

rea

k Semester 11 [19 credits] Jan-May

2 w

ee

ks

se

me

ste

r b

rea

k Summer Semester 12 [15 credits] Jun-Jul

PHAR4002 Health Care Administration/Management I [4]

PHAR4000 Pharmacotherapy II [4]

PHAR4008 Patient Care Management Lab I [4]

PHAR4004 Clinical Pharmacy IV: Drug Information and Informatics [4]

PHAR4006 Clinical Pharmacy V: Non-Prescription Therapies[4]

PHAR 4016 Elective [3]

PHAR 4010 Pharmacotherapy III [4]

PHAR 4012 Health Care Administration/Management II [4]

PHAR 4014 Clinical Pharmacy VI: Patient Assessment [4]

PHAR 4018 Patient Care Management Lab II [4]

PHAR 4020 Pharmacy Law and Ethics II [4]

PHAR 4030 Seminar I [1]

5-WEEK ROTATION Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPE)

PHAR4022 APPE I Ambulatory Care I [5]

PHAR4024 APPE II Community Pharmacy[5]

YEAR 05

Semester 13 [16 credits] Aug-Dec

ONE WEEK BREAK BETWEEN ROTATIONS

Semester 14 [21 credits] Jan-Jun

ONE WEEK BREAK BETWEEN ROTATIONS

PHAR 5008 Seminar II [1]


PHAR 5002 APPE III : Hospital/Institutional Pharmacy[5]

PHAR 5004 APPE IV: Internal Medicine[5]

PHAR 5006 APPE V: Acute Patient Care I[5]

PHAR 5018 Seminar III [1]


PHAR 5010 APPE VI: Acute Patient Care II [5]

PHAR 5012 APPE VII: Selective I* [5]

PHAR 5014 APPE VIII: Selective II* [5]

PHAR 5016 APPE IX: Elective** [5]

* Selectives can be chosen from: Pediatric Pharmacy, Geriatric Pharmacy, Nuclear Pharmacy, Home Infusion, or Drug Information **Electives can be chosen from: Hospital/Administration Pharmacy, Industrial Pharmacy, Compounding Pharmacy, Academic Pharmacy, Community Pharmacy; Oncology, Social and Administrative Pharmacy, or Psychiatry

24

CURRICULUM: SHORT COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

YEAR 1

Introductory Chemistry A (CHEM1901)

This course covers introductory Analytical Chemistry, Atomic Theory, Crystal structures and

symmetry elements, Born-Haber cycle. Molecular Orbital Theory for homo- and hetero-nuclear

diatomic molecules, Energetics and Molecular Structure, A mechanistic approach to the

chemistry of alkanes, alkenes and alkynes and an introduction to the stereochemistry of organic

molecules.

Introductory Chemistry B (CHEM1902)

This course covers the main group elements based on their position in the Periodic Table.

Thermodynamics, synthesis and reactions of functionalised organic compounds and an

introduction to aromatic chemistry.

Human Physiology (PHYL1010)

General overview of Human Physiology including the autonomic nervous and neuromuscular

system, cardiovascular system and respiratory systems. Some aspects of pathophysiology are

discussed and laboratory demonstrations on lung function, ECG, C.V.S. nerve-muscle and exercise

are carried out.

Development & Differentiation of a typical Animal Cell (BAMS1010)

This course aims to equip students with knowledge of the anatomical structures of a typical

animal cell and the processes involved in cell development and differentiation during

embryogenesis.

Cellular Biochemistry (BIOC1020)

This course will provide an introduction to the chemical and three-dimensional structures and

physiological functions of the major biomolecules found in all living organisms. The structures

and functions of representative macromolecules: proteins and nucleic acids, and how they can

25

interact with other biomolecules, as exemplified by outlining how enzymes perform their roles

in metabolism, will be discussed. Sub-cellular structures found in most cell types are bounded

by biomembranes, this course will outline the physiological functions of these organelles and

how the physiological properties of membranes make these possible. Cell-to-cell communication

mechanisms will be discussed as well as the mechanisms by which hormones exert their effects

upon cells. It will highlight the biomolecular aspects of the different stages of cell cycles and of

cell-cell interactions, including cell surface receptors. The fundamental ways in which living

organisms harvest energy from their surroundings will be explored; and finally the formation and

properties of extracellular matrices such as bone and mollusc shells will be described.

Practical Biochemistry 1(BIOC1021)

This course will introduce students to the proper use and operational limitations of the

instruments commonly used in biochemistry laboratories by employing them in a series of

practical experiments under expert guidance. Students will also become familiar with the

analysis of the data generated by the experiments and correct methods for reporting the data

and interpreted results.

Introductory Microbiology and Molecular Biology (MICR1010)

This course will introduce students to examples of bacteria, archaea and yeasts and the

habitats/environments in which they live. The important structural features of these

microorganisms will be outlined; important applications of microbiology and microbial diseases

will be discussed. The fine molecular structure of genetic material and the enzymic mechanisms

used in replication, gene expression and recombinant DNA technology will be introduced.

Practical Microbiology and Molecular Biology 1(MICR1011)

Through a series of experiments students will isolate individual microorganisms and culture pure

colonies. The effects of differing growth conditions on microorganisms will be demonstrated as

will methods of killing unwanted microorganisms. Methods of quantifying microorganisms will

be compared and discussed. A sample of DNA will be extracted and digested with restriction

endonucleases, and the fragments obtained separated by gel electrophoresis.

26

Profession of Pharmacy (PHAR 1000)

This course provides students with their first exposure to pharmacy as a profession, and the

educational process for becoming a pharmacist. It relates the history and evolution of the roles

of the pharmacist to contemporary practice. Students will engage in self-reflection about

abilities, skills, experiences, and desires in an effort to determine their best opportunities and

position in the profession. Through an active discovery process, students will learn about the

current issues shaping the profession and how these events may shape their future practice.

Students will also be introduced to the code of ethics, pharmacy law, the Board of Pharmacy, and

contemporary pharmacy issues. Moreover, students will be introduced to medical terminology,

basic pharmaceutical calculations, as well as basic medication orders/prescriptions and the

mathematical calculations and abbreviations that are essential for accurate interpretation of

prescription orders. Prerequisite: Satisfaction of the entry requirements for the Doctor of

Pharmacy programme

Pharmacokinetics (PHAR 2002)

This course will focus on the mechanisms and rates involved in absorption and disposition of

drugs in the human body. Specifically, it is the mathematics of the time course of absorption,

distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) of drugs in the body. A variety of biological,

physiological, and physicochemical factors can influence the transfer processes of drugs in the

body and therefore these factors can have a profound impact on ADME of drugs. This course will

provide student pharmacists with the skills needed to design individualized dosing regimens for

a variety of drugs in different patient populations and disease states.

Prerequisite: Compliance with the progression rules outlined in the Regulations for the Doctor of

Pharmacy programme.

27

YEAR 2

Pharmaceutics I with Lab (PHAR 2004)

The focus of this course is the physicochemical principles that are germane to the development

of pharmaceutical formulations. These principles include pKa, pH buffer solutions, and

thermodynamics, and solubility, colligative properties of solutions, isotonicity, and chemical

kinetics with regard to stability of drug products. This course also explores the theories and

concepts involved in the technology and design of solid dosage systems. Moreover, the course

also covers the basic techniques used in the preparation of liquids, powders, capsules, and

tablets, as well as the distinctive properties of these preparations.


Pharmacy programme

Organic Chemistry I for Health Care Majors (PHAR 2000)

The primary focus of this course is to provide Health Care Majors with a fundamentally sound

understanding of the organic chemistry concepts that are most germane to the health

professions. These concepts will include bonding, acidity and basicity, selected types of reactions,

functional group characteristics, their preparations, characterizations, interconversions and

utility. A concerted effort will also be made to provide information on the intimate link between

organic chemistry and medicine.


Pharmacy programme.

Pathophysiology I (PHAR 2006)

This course explores the pathophysiology of common disorders in humans. Specifically, it will

focus on the etiology, pathogenesis, and epidemiology of the following: cardiovascular,

respiratory, gastrointestinal, renal, neurological, psychiatric, endocrinologic, gynecologic and

obstetric, and urologic disorders.


Pharmacy programme.

28

Pharmaceutics II with Lab (PHAR 2012)

Pharmaceutics II with Lab is a continuation of the study of physiochemical principles,

pharmaceutical dosage forms and drug delivery systems. Upon completion of the course,

students are expected to apply physicochemical concepts in the design and development of

pharmaceutical formulations with emphasis on dispersion systems (colloidal, suspension,

emulsion, aerosol), semisolid dosage systems, sterile dosage forms, novel and advanced dosage

forms, and delivery systems and devices. In addition, the design and evaluation of dosing

regimens and dosage forms (delivery systems) that overcome barriers and optimize drug action

(and minimize adverse effects) will be introduced. Biochemical principles involved in the

development of biotechnological pharmaceuticals will also be introduced.


Pharmacy programme.

Clinical Pharmacy I (PHAR 2016)

This course will provide students with additional exposure to basic pharmaceutical calculations.

Additionally, it is designed to provide the students with information about basic medication

orders/prescriptions and the mathematical calculations and abbreviations needed for

interpretation of prescriptions. Furthermore, students will be introduced to more advanced

medical terminology concepts and various aspects of patient assessment.


Pharmacy programme.

Organic Chemistry II for Health Care Majors (PHAR 2008)

This course is a continuation of organic chemistry I for Health Care Majors which is designed to

provide Health Care Majors with a fundamentally sound understanding of the organic chemistry

concepts that are most germane to the health professions. These concepts will include bonding,

acidity and basicity, selected types of reactions, functional group characteristics, their

preparations, characterizations, interconversions and utility. A concerted effort will also be made

to provide information on the intimate link between organic chemistry and medicine.


Pharmacy programme.

29

Pathophysiology II (PHAR 2014)

This course explores the pathophysiology of common disorders in humans. Specifically, it will

focus on the etiology, pathogenesis, and epidemiology of the following: immunologic, bone and

joint, eyes, ears, nose and throat disorders, dermatologic, hematologic, oncologic, nutritional

disorders, and infectious diseases.


Pharmacy programme.

Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experience I (IPPE): Community Pharmacy (PHAR 2030)

This course is an introductory pharmacy practice experience (IPPE) that is designed to assist the

student in actively participating in and experiencing the distributive functions of pharmacy and

provision of pharmaceutical care in the community pharmacy practice setting. This pharmacy

practice setting experience is divided into six main areas of experience: prescription processing

and compounding, over the counter products, patient counseling and education, pharmacy

administration and management, pharmacy law, and team interaction/education.


Pharmacy programme.

30

YEAR 3

Medicinal Chemistry I (PHAR 3000)

The focus of this course is the chemistry of natural and synthetic drug entities, their

physicochemical properties, methods of synthesis, sources, derivatives, modes of

biotransformation, and structure activity relationships. In this course, a concerted effort is made

to link the chemical structure of drugs to their pharmacological, pharmacokinetic and toxicity

profiles.


Pharmacy programme.

Pharmacology I (PHAR 3010)

This is the first of a two semester sequence of courses that are designed to develop students’

understanding of the pharmacological actions of drug entities, as well as their mechanisms of

action, untoward effects, and therapeutic utility.


Pharmacy programme.

Toxicology (PHAR 3004)

This course provides the basic concepts of toxicology. The following topics will be explored:

toxicodynamics, toxicokinetics, molecular mechanisms of toxicity, drug toxicity, toxins & poisons

from natural sources, pesticides & herbicides, heavy metal intoxication & chelators, solvents, air

pollutants, and management of poisoning.


Pharmacy programme.

Clinical Pharmacy II (PHAR 3006)

This course provides the student with foundational concepts that are necessary to understand

the practice of pharmaceutical care. Emphasis will be placed on understanding select laboratory

values, principles of basic disease states, fundamentals of the patient medical chart, SOAP

concepts, and methods for evaluating case studies. Students will also gain experience with oral

31

and written presentations. Select concepts of professionalism and drug information will also be

emphasized.


Pharmacy programme.

Medicinal Chemistry II (PHAR 3012)

This is the second part of a two-course sequence of courses which explore the chemistry of

natural and synthetic drug entities, their physicochemical properties, methods of synthesis,

sources, derivatives, modes of biotransformation, and structure activity relationships. In this

course, a concerted effort is made to link the chemical structure of drugs to their

pharmacological, pharmacokinetic and toxicity profiles.


Pharmacy programme.

Pharmacology II (PHAR 3014)

This is the second part of a two semester sequence of courses that are designed to develop

students’ understanding of the pharmacological actions of drug entities, as well as their

mechanisms of action, untoward effects, and therapeutic utility.


Pharmacy programme.

Clinical Pharmacy III (PHAR 3018)

This course is designed to expose professional pharmacy students to advanced concepts of

pharmaceutical care. Emphasis is placed on developing skills necessary to effectively

communicate in pharmacy practice environments. This course will also challenge students to

acquire the skills necessary to successfully conduct patient assessment, develop pharmaceutical

care plans, manage patient follow-up evaluations, and provide pharmacotherapy education,

including pertinent information on the top 100 drugs.


Pharmacy programme.

32

Pharmacotherapy I (PHAR 3016)

This course explores the management of common disorders in humans. Specifically, it will focus

on the efficacy, safety, rationale for treatment, realistic outcomes, and parameters to monitor

the progress of the disease in the following: Cardiovascular, Respiratory, Gastrointestinal, and

Renal Disorders.


Pharmacy programme.

Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacokinetics (PHAR 3020)

The biopharmaceutics component of this course will present the principles of drug absorption or

systemic availability for therapeutic effect. It will discuss issues related to the impact of dosage

forms on absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion, in relation to the expected

therapeutic outcomes. It will also develop in students the skills for drug product evaluation and

comparison for brand-generic substitution. The clinical pharmacokinetic component will

integrate the rate processes with biopharmaceutics principles for rational determination of

dosage administration protocols that will optimize patients’ benefit from pharmacotherapy.

Students will also develop skills in individualization of drug dosing regimens and adaptive care

techniques. It will also enhance therapeutic problem-solving skills and allow for the integration

of applied pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic knowledge to optimization of drug dosing

regimens. This course is appropriate for Pharm.D. students who need to be trained in clinical

pharmacology so that they can become competent to participate in patient management teams.


Pharmacy programme.

(Summer) Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experience (IPPE); Community Pharmacy (four

weeks); PHAR 3030

This course is an introductory pharmacy practice experience (IPPE) that is designed to assist the

student in actively participating in and experiencing the distributive functions of pharmacy in the

community pharmacy practice setting. This pharmacy practice setting experience is divided into

six main areas of experience: prescription processing and compounding, over the counter

products, patient counseling and education, pharmacy administration and management,

pharmacy law, and team interaction/education.

33


Pharmacy programme.

Pharmacy Law and Ethics I (PHAR 3008)

The basic principles of pharmacy law are reviewed as they relate to the practice of pharmacy in

Jamaica, the Caribbean, and USA. Many examples of how the law is applied to specific situations

will be discussed. Critical thinking will be stimulated through the use of case studies involving

issues in the law and ethics. Additionally, laws and ethical principles as they relate to professional

and business activities will be explored.


Pharmacy programme.

Pharmaceutical Sales and Marketing Operations (PHAR 3022)

The aim of this course is to expose Pharm.D. students to sales and marketing principles. It will

train participants in critical marketing principles and prepares them to design and execute the

personal selling element of the integrated marketing communications mix, with specific focus on

pharmaceuticals. It also explores critical aspects of encouraging best practices among the sales

force of pharmaceutical companies.


Pharmacy programme.

34

YEAR 4

Health Care Administration/Management I (PHAR 4002)

This course focuses on the structure, organization, delivery, regulation, and financing of the

health care systems, primarily in the Caribbean and USA. The role and responsibilities of

pharmacy in the health care systems, and their interactions with other health occupations are

discussed. Reimbursement issues in health care are introduced and implications upon the

practice of health care are discussed. This course covers the functions of management and

administration (planning, organization, staffing, direction, and controlling) applied to pharmacy

practice in the community and institutional settings. Additionally, this course also explores

contemporary management principles, in addition to basic management principles and methods,

as well as entrepreneurial, social and economic aspects of practice.


Pharmacy programme.

Pharmacotherapy II (PHAR 4000)



the progress of the disease in the following: Neurological, Psychiatric, Endocrinologic,

Gynecologic and Obstetrics, and Urologic Disorders.


Pharmacy programme.

Patient Care Management Lab I (PHAR 4008)

This laboratory experience will simulate the actual practice of pharmacy in both retail and

institutional settings. Students will learn the fundamentals of processing and filling a prescription

or doctor’s drug order. Additionally, students will gain experience in compounding medications,

preparing sterile products, recommending over-the-counter medications, and counseling

patients.


Pharmacy programme.

35

Clinical Pharmacy IV (PHAR 4004)

Drug information and informatics will be the primary focus of this course. Principles of drug

information, drug information retrieval and analysis, literature evaluation, and verbal and written

communication skills will be emphasized. Students will be able to utilize the drug information

skills learned in this course to provide optimal pharmaceutical care in any pharmacy practice

setting.


Pharmacy programme.

Clinical Pharmacy V (PHAR 4006)

This course is designed to familiarize the student with nonprescription drugs and products or

over-the counter medications. Emphasis will be placed on the pharmacology of the drugs,

potential disease states in which the drugs are utilized, self-administration techniques,

considerations in selection of a product, and patient counseling.


Pharmacy programme.

Elective (PHAR 4016)

The didactic elective can be chosen from several options available in the Faculty of Medical

Sciences (BBMEDSCI programme). Additionally, LING 1819, Beginners Caribbean Sign

Language will be one of the electives available to students.


Pharmacy programme.

Pharmacotherapy III (PHAR 4010)



the progress of the disease in the following: Bone and Joint, Eyes, Ears, Nose and Throat,

Dermatologic, Hematologic, Oncologic, and Nutritional Disorders, as well as Infectious Diseases.


Pharmacy programme.

36

Health Care Administration/Management II (PHAR 4012)

This course will offer additional pharmacy management principles that relate to contemporary

pharmacy practice and present an introduction to the fundamentals of health outcomes research

and pharmacoeconomic analysis. Students will be exposed to pharmacoeconomic articles and

participate in discussions, which will provide them with tools useful to address the difficulties

associated with implementing programmes. Through an active learning process, students will

follow and interpret current issues that are shaping pharmaceutical and medical care as they

discover the impact these events will have in shaping their future practice.


Pharmacy programme.

Clinical Pharmacy VI (PHAR 4014)

This course is designed to develop knowledge in assessment, data collection, interpretation and

evaluation profiling, and advisement will also be covered. Students will acquire skills on the

development of effective therapeutic care plans.


Pharmacy programme.

Patient Care Management Lab II (PHAR4018)

This laboratory experience will simulate the actual practice of pharmacy in both retail and

institutional settings. Students will learn the fundamentals of processing and filling a prescription

or doctor’s drug of the patient’s physical state. Additional techniques of patient interviewing,

charting, medication order. Additionally, students will gain experience in compounding

medications, preparing sterile products, recommending over-the-counter medications,

immunization delivery, and counseling patients.


Pharmacy programme.

Pharmacy Law and Ethics II (PHAR 4020)

The basic principles of pharmacy law are reviewed as they relate to the practice of pharmacy in

Jamaica, the Caribbean, and USA. Many examples of how the law is applied to specific situations

will be discussed. Critical thinking will be stimulated through the use of case studies involving

37

issues in the law and ethics. Additionally, laws and ethical principles as they relate to professional

and business activities will be explored.


Pharmacy programme.

Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience I (APPE I); Ambulatory Care I (PHAR 4022)

The Ambulatory Care I advanced pharmacy practice experience is designed to give students

experience in treating patients who are typically not acutely ill in “out-patient” settings. These

experiences could focus on the medication management of specific diseases or general care of

patients with chronic conditions (such as hypertension, diabetes, asthma, hyperlipidemia, etc.).

Students will be involved in problem solving, patient medication counseling and therapeutic

monitoring. In addition, they will address drug interactions, side effects, and medication

adherence issues in the care of these patients. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all year-

01-04 courses.

Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience II (APPE II); Community Pharmacy (PHAR 4024)

This course is an advanced pharmacy practice experience designed to assist the student in

actively participating and experiencing the distributive functions of pharmacy in the community

pharmacy practice setting. This pharmacy practice setting experience is divided into six main

areas of experience: prescription processing and compounding, over the counter products,

patient counseling and education, pharmacy administration and management, pharmacy law,

and team interaction/education. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all year-01-04 courses.

Seminar I (PHAR 4030)

Seminar I is the first part of a three course series that is designed to provide students with the

skills, techniques, and competencies required to successfully navigate the advanced pharmacy

practice experiences. In addition, these courses provide the student an opportunity and

experience in preparing and presenting pharmacy related topics to colleagues and other

healthcare professionals in a professional manner. Furthermore, this course involves the study

of the top 200 most commonly prescribed drugs. Students will learn trade names, generic names,

mechanisms of action, available strengths, available dosage forms, appropriate dosing guidelines,

common adverse drug reactions, patient counseling information and clinically significant drug-

drug interactions. Moreover, various stakeholders of the pharmacy profession will be invited to

38

address the students on the need for pharmacists in various areas of pharmacy practice in

Jamaica and the Caribbean. Furthermore, students will be required to perform routine

pharmaceutical calculations, consistent with the requirements of the Pharmacist Licensure

Examination. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all year-01-04 courses.

YEAR 5

Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience III (APPE III); Hospital/Institutional Pharmacy (PHAR

5002)

This is an advanced pharmacy practice experience that is designed to provide students with an

opportunity to actively participate in the distributive functions of pharmacy in the institutional

pharmacy practice settings. This pharmacy practice experience is divided into seven main areas:

drug distribution, manufacturing activities, dissemination of drug and product information,

patient counseling and education, pharmacy administration and management, pharmacy law,

and team interaction/education. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all year-01-04 courses.

Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience IV (APPE IV); Internal Medicine I (PHAR 5004)

Advance Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) IV is a 5 week (200 hr.) supervised adult internal

medicine rotation. This medicine experience is in an institutional acute care setting designed to

provide the student with the opportunity to develop and refine the skills necessary to deliver

pharmaceutical care, with an emphasis on rational drug therapy and patient outcomes. This will

be accomplished by participation in the daily activities of work rounds with the internal medicine

team and through consultation with other health care providers involved in the care of patients.

Students will have the opportunity to apply basic pharmaceutical and pharmacological

knowledge to various therapeutic issues and be introduced to various disease states encountered

in clinical practice. Interaction and communication with other health care professionals for the

promotion of optimal drug therapy are stressed to help the student develop a fundamentally

sound professional approach to the practice of pharmacy. Prerequisite: Successful completion

of all year-01-04 courses.

39

Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience V (APPE V); Acute Patient Care I (PHAR 5006)

The Acute Patient Care I Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) is one of two 5-week,

full time (minimum 40 hours per week), out-of-classroom supervised experiences emphasizing

direct-patient care in the inpatient, acute setting. In this APPE, students will apply didactic

knowledge as they develop their professional maturity and judgment skills performing as active

members of a healthcare team. Students will select one specialty area in acute pharmacy

practice from multiple offerings to complete this requirement. Prerequisite: Successful

completion of all year-01-04 courses.

Seminar II (PHAR 5008)

Seminar II is the second part of a three course series that is designed to provide students with

the skills, techniques, and competencies required to successfully navigate the advanced

pharmacy practice experiences. In addition, these courses provide the student an opportunity

and experience in preparing and presenting pharmacy related topics to colleagues and other









Examination. Prerequisite: Successful completion of all year-01-04 courses.

Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience VI (APPE VI); Acute Patient Care II (PHAR 5010)

The Acute Patient Care II Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) is the second of two 5-

week, full time (minimum 40 hours per week), out-of-classroom supervised experiences

emphasizing direct-patient care in the inpatient, acute setting. In this APPE, students will apply

didactic knowledge as they develop their professional maturity and judgment skills performing

as active members of a healthcare team. Students will select one specialty area in acute

pharmacy practice from multiple offerings to complete this requirement. Prerequisite: Successful

completion of all year-01-04 courses.

40

Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience VII (APPE VII); Selective I (PHAR 5012)

The Selective I Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) is the first of two 5-week, full

time (minimum 40 hours per week), out-of-classroom supervised experiences in a variety of

settings. These can include one of the following experiences: Pediatric Pharmacy, Geriatric

Pharmacy, Nuclear Pharmacy, Home Infusion, or Drug Information. In this APPE, students will

apply didactic knowledge as they develop their professional maturity and judgment skills

performing as active members of a team. Successful completion of all year-01-04 courses.

Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience VIII (APPE VIII); Selective II (PHAR 5014)

The Selective II Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) is the second of two 5-week, full

time (minimum 40 hours per week), out-of-classroom supervised experiences in a variety of

settings. These can include one of the following experiences: Pediatric Pharmacy, Geriatric

Pharmacy, Nuclear Pharmacy, Home Infusion, or Drug Information. In this APPE, students will

apply didactic knowledge as they develop their professional maturity and judgment skills

performing as active members of a team. Successful completion of all year-01-04 courses.

Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience IX (APPE IX); Elective (PHAR 5016)

The Elective Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) is a 5-week, full time (minimum 40

hours per week), out-of-classroom supervised experience in a variety of settings. These can

include one of the following experiences: Hospital/ Administration Pharmacy, Industrial

Pharmacy, Compounding Pharmacy, Academic Pharmacy, Community Pharmacy, Oncology,

Social and Administrative Pharmacy, or Psychiatry In this APPE, students will apply didactic

knowledge as they develop their professional maturity and judgment skills performing as active

members of a team. Successful completion of all year-01-04 courses.

Seminar III (PHAR 5018)

Seminar III is the third part of a three course series that is designed to provide students with the

skills, techniques, and competencies required to successfully navigate the advanced pharmacy

practice experiences. In addition, these courses provide the student an opportunity and

experience in preparing and presenting pharmacy related topics to colleagues and other





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Examination.

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Is there life after lectures?

By now you must be wondering if getting into this Pharm.D. thing was really a good idea. It’s true

that there are only so many hours in a week so how do you fit in all the teaching and self-study,

and still have a life?

It all boils down to proper time management. This is a delicate area for all university students,

and is probably more so for pharmacy students with their heavier than average workload.

Managing your time effectively

The key to effective time management is to determine what works best for you as an individual,

and to accept that this may well differ from what works for others around you. It is important

that you take responsibility for your own time management. Start working on it now. It is good

training for life as a doctor.

The Pharm.D. is undoubtedly stressful at some points, and it is essential that you learn to

minimize your stress, and face what cannot be avoided. Ineffective management of time is one

of the most common causes of stress, and is largely avoidable. Effective time management

depends on organization and self-discipline; both important ingredients of a pharmacist’s life.

Set yourself deadlines, and stick to them. Don't spend lots of time planning and thinking about work

- just do it! Even short breaks in the daily timetable can and should be filled with discussion and other

useful activities.

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Study Skills How to learn from lectures

The key is to actively engage yourself with the material being presented. Before the lecture, find

out the topic from the schedule. Write down everything you know about it and what you think

the lecturer will be covering so that you can listen for the main points.

During the lecture, write down your own thoughts and ideas about the topic. Ask questions if you

have an opportunity and try to answer for yourself any questions posed to others. Highlight

anything you're unsure about to remind yourself to check it out later.

After the lecture, review your notes as soon as possible and try to highlight key points. Clarify

misunderstandings and fill in gaps by comparing notes with a colleague. Write a summary if you

have time and do the associated reading as soon as possible.

Making Notes

Lecture notes are something you need to think about and create, not something you passively

receive. The key to successful note-making is to develop a style that suits you. There is no correct'

way, and most people find they need to be flexible and to adopt methods according to the

situation and the material presented.

In general, writing single key words or phrases is more likely to trigger recall by allowing the brain

to form links between ideas. Transcribing lecture notes in a tidy form is a waste of your time.

Instead, spend that time summarizing the main points. But changing old habits is difficult. It takes

time and perseverance but stick with it and it will pay off in the end.

Studying on your own

As a pharmacy student at UWI, self-study will be an important part of your learning. To get the

most out of this, you need to do some preparation. Decide how long you can devote to each

study period, and what amount of material to cover. Set limits for yourself and break large areas

down into several smaller ones that can be covered in your available time slots. Initially, browse

through the written material rapidly getting a general feel for the topic. Take a few minutes to

note down what you already know about the subject and define specific learning goals or

questions to be answered during the study session.

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Getting the most from your reading

A lot of time will be devoted to reading – books and articles and, increasingly, material from the

Internet. To make sure your reading is efficient, you must know why you are reading a particular

piece. Quickly skim through the paragraphs to decide whether it’s really worth reading in depth.

Make notes in your own words and jot down the source of new information for later use. Stick

to what is relevant based on your purpose and the learning outcomes you have set for yourself.

Examination Strategies

Although there is increasing emphasis on continuing assessment you will still be required to sit

important examinations at the end of your courses and at the end of the programme. These

examinations are aimed at ensuring that your level of knowledge and your competency in the

skills required for the practice of medicine are adequate and meet the standards required for

safe and effective care of patients.

Although the examinations may contain questions about pharmacy ethics and professional

conduct, most of the important testing of attitudes and behaviour takes place during your

courses. Much of the detail about these will be provided to you later, but there is some general

information about examinations in the Faculty that you should be aware of from now.

The Faculty carries out a meticulous process of setting and marking examinations which is aimed

at ensuring fairness to all candidates. In addition to internal examiners approved and appointed

by the University, the final examination requires the appointment of an external examiner from

another university outside of the region. The purpose of this examiner is not only to ensure

fairness to the candidates, but to provide an external review of the standards of teaching and the

process of assessment in the Faculty. This examiner is involved in the setting and marking of

written papers and may participate in the process of oral, practical or clinical examination of

candidates.

In addition, the external examiner reviews the record and examination of students who, in the

opinion of the internal examiners, have not achieved a satisfactory standard and also those who

have attained honours or distinction grades.

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Oral examinations

The word ‘viva’ often produces feelings of panic in students but this really needn't be so. It is true

that 'viva voce" (oral) examinations are sometimes used for borderline candidates to allow them

another chance to pass but they may also be used for candidates with high grades to decide on

the award of Honours or Distinctions.

Remember that vivas are your chance to show what you know and improve on your existing

grade. Believe it or not, the examiners want you to pass, and certainly aren't 'out to get you’. Use

the viva as an opportunity to prove yourself and what you know. This is how the examiners really

do look at it.

Coping with Stress

You will not be able to learn effectively if you are not functioning well physically and mentally.

Although a little bit of circulating adrenaline can help you concentrate, getting stressed out will

affect your performance. Try to make sure that you allow yourself some free time each day. Some

form of regular physical activity will aid your learning and make you more mentally alert.

At this stage, avoid working until the early hours of the morning. Getting a good night's sleep is

crucial to keeping your mind functioning well. Eating regularly is not always easy but aim for a

balanced diet. Try to avoid stimulants and if you need a snack, go for healthy options.

Work steadily and avoid the last minute stress of cramming for examinations. This means

planning your study and review in advance. Try to cover all the material at least once and avoid

learning some things in depth while not covering others at all. Find out as much about the

examination as possible, so you know what to expect and think positive!

Being accepted into pharmacy school may be seen as a great privilege, but this is a tough course

and there will be times when you wonder why you're here.

The workload, the stress and the uncertainty don't get any less with time. They are in some ways

almost characteristic of a career in Pharmacy. What's important is that you learn from now how

to manage the heavy workload, deal with stress, cope with uncertainty, and still achieve a

balance between work and relaxation.

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is to think that you're the only one with difficulties,

and that everyone else has it covered. There are a hundred others in your year going through

the same thing. It's not until you really start talking honestly with people that you begin to realize

that they're having problems too.

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Just remember that it's OK not to be on top of the world all the time -that's normal, it's healthy.

But it's not always fun. Yes, the workload is heavy; the hours are long and there are sacrifices

but never forget that at the end of the day, this is a special programme, and it takes a special

person like you to do it well.

When and where to go for help

Although the Faculty and the University do provide support systems which you can use, it is

important that you keep an eye on your own welfare, and also that of your friends and colleagues.

You are not a machine: you will have bad days and even bad weeks; things won't always work

out, but whatever happens, your own physical and mental health should come first. Build your

own peer support systems. Sometimes it helps just to have someone you can talk to.

The important thing is to seek help as soon as you feel you might need it, and to let someone

appropriate know as soon as possible. Do not wait until the situation is out of hand. You never

know when you might need someone to speak for you, and mitigating circumstances are usually

taken into account when borderline grades are being reviewed.

Academic Advisors

As you will learn during orientation week, the Faculty assigns a member of the teaching staff to

each of you to serve as your Academic Advisor. Please ensure that you know who that person is

and how they can be contacted. It is suggested that you make an appointment to see your

academic advisor early on in your course. You do not need to be experiencing a problem to make

that first contact. Some advisors will make early arrangements to see students assigned to them,

either individually or in a small group but you need not wait for an invitation.

The system of Academic Advisors is meant to provide one route for offering personal support

and does not exclude other systems of student counselling nor the possibility of students

approaching other members of the teaching staff for advice and assistance.

The system is not perfect and your relationship with your advisor will only be as good as the effort

you put into making it work. Your advisor is really your first port of call if you're looking for help

or advice, or need to share a problem and it need not be on a strictly academic matter. Your

advisor won't always be able to offer a solution but they should know where to send you and it's

important that someone in the Faculty knows you by name, and knows early on if you're having

any kind of personal or academic difficulty.

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Health Matters

Medical certificates of illness

We hope that you remain well throughout your programme of studies. However, if you do get ill,

we recommend that you seek medical attention early. If you are ill for more than two days and if

the illness causes you to miss classes, laboratory sessions or any other compulsory duties, you

must submit a medical certificate as proof of illness from the University Health Service to the

Course Coordinator or to a Head of Department under whom you are working at the time. Keep

a photocopy of the certificate for your personal records.

If for any reason you are unable to go to a doctor at the University Health Service, another doctor

may provide the necessary certificate, but that doctor must inform the Director of the University

Health Service that she/he is doing so.

If you are ill during an examination or in the days immediately preceding an examination, you

must submit a medical certificate as proof of illness either to the Course Coordinator or to a Head

of Department under whom you are working at the time, preferably on or before the day of the

examination. Keep a photocopy of the certificate for your own records. Failure to submit a

medical certificate under these circumstances will mean that the illness will not be considered in

assessing your performance in the examination.

Serious communicable diseases

If you have any reason to believe that you have been exposed to a serious communicable disease

you must seek and follow professional advice without delay to find out whether you should

undergo testing and, if so, which tests are appropriate.

If you know that you have a serious communicable disease you must immediately seek and follow

confidential professional advice. The staff at the University Health Service is available and suitably

qualified to give confidential advice and assistance. Medical practitioners at the University

Hospital of the West Indies and private practitioners outside of the University are also available

to you.

It is important for you to know that:

University regulations protect students and staff from discrimination on grounds of

illness.

You must not rely on your own assessment of the risks you pose to patients.

If you have a serious communicable disease, for you to continue your studies and your

practical work, you must have appropriate medical supervision.

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When you qualify and apply for a job, you must complete health questionnaires honestly

and fully.

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Other Sources of Information

Where else can I get information?

General Student Handbook

Further information about campus life and student services offered by the University can be

found in the latest edition of the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus, Undergraduate

Student Handbook (available at http://myspot.mona.uwi.edu/firstyear/).

This includes an important section on the rights and responsibilities of students with guidelines

on the University’s position on issues such as sexual harassment. It also contains useful

information on matters of general interest - financial planning and student accommodation and

provides contact information for those persons and offices responsible for student services.

University and Faculty Regulations

Detailed regulations governing all aspects of university life including examinations are produced

by the Administration. Requests for such information can be addressed to staff in the

Examinations or Admissions Sections of the Registry.

On-line Information

The Faculty website with general information about the programme can be accessed through the

UWI Mona Home Page at http://www.mona.uwi.edu/

An intra-campus network is also available to allow you to access information about specific

courses on-line. You will be instructed as to which courses are using this and how, as a registered

student, you can login to the University’s Virtual Learning Environment (OURVLE).

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As the Faculty moves to adopt more modern technology, you will find it increasingly useful to

communicate with your tutors and colleagues via e-mail and chat-rooms and you will need to

know how to regularly access course information posted on the Web.

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Other FMS Facilities

Deans Office/Student affairs

The Dean’s Office and its Undergraduate Affairs Section is situated on the fifth floor of the

Faculty of Medical Sciences Teaching and Research Complex. This office is responsible for the

administration of the Faculty and its academic programmes. In addition, it maintains a record of

the academic progress of each student from their entry to the Faculty.

Library and Computer Facilities

The Library Services include the Main Library at the North end of the Ring Road, the Science

Library situated near the Preclinical Lecture Theatre and the Medical Library situated on the

Hospital Ring Road near to its junction with Aqueduct Road.

In addition to providing general library services, both the Science and Medical Libraries

maintain a stock of recommended textbooks and journals relevant to the PHARMD Programme.

The libraries are electronically linked by a local area network and provide access to pharmacy

and medical databases such as ACCESS PHARMACY, MEDLINE and MEDCARIB in addition to

web-based resource lists designed for PHARMD students.

The H. D. Hopwood Computer Centre is situated on the top floor of the Medical Library. It is

equipped with computers linked to the campus network for accessing information through the

internet. There is also a smaller computer laboratory located in the vicinity of the Department

of Basic Medical Sciences.

Teaching Hospitals and Research Facilities

Most of the Hospital-based teaching provided for the PHARMD students takes place at the 500

bed teaching University Hospital sited at the north end of the campus.

However, clinical teaching also takes place at other approved hospitals, clinics and health

centres outside of the campus where associate teaching staff supervised by a newly appointed

Deputy Dean are based. Presently, these hospitals include the Kingston Regional and Victoria

Jubilee Hospitals, the Bustamante Hospital for Children, National Chest Hospital, Cornwall

Regional, Mandeville Regional and Spanish Town Hospitals.

In addition, the University is affiliated with several research units whose staff members

participate in the teaching programme. These include the Tropical Metabolism Research Unit

on the hospital compound and the Sickle Cell Unit on the main campus.

doctor of pharmacy

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