Original Research
Monday, November 13, 2023
01:00 PM–02:30 PM
Abstract
Introduction:
The Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is an assessment tool used to evaluate clinical competencies and skills in healthcare education and practice.
Research Question or Hypothesis: What are the perceptions of Qatar University (QU) College of Pharmacy alumni regarding the impact of OSCE on their personal and professional development in practice?
Study Design: A cross-sectional survey was conducted.
Methods:
Data was collected using an online questionnaire sent to QU pharmacy graduates who had undertaken the OSCE and have at least a year of practice experience. The 10-item survey included a 4-point Likert scale and demographic information. Quantitative data was analyzed statistically using SPSS.
Results:
Most participants perceived OSCE to have a positive impact on their personal and professional development. More than 85% reported that OSCE helped them improve their communication skills and interprofessional collaboration skills, while 80% reported that OSCE helped in the application of skills and abilities required of pharmacists to provide professional services. However, mixed perceptions were shared about having the OSCE as an integral component of licensure/re-licensure requirements for pharmacist in Qatar. Regarding feedback on the OSCE process, most participants reported that the OSCE is a beneficial high-stakes examination, and 70% thought that the OSCE simulate real case scenarios they encounter in practice where they had the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills. Moreover, around 70% agreed that the OSCE helped them to identify some of their strengths and weaknesses in practice.
Conclusion:
The study highlights the importance of OSCEs as a valuable tool for learning-based assessment and professional development. It is recommended that OSCE be incorporated into the training and assessment of pharmacists in Qatar and other countries to enhance their clinical competencies and improve the quality of patient care. Our findings can inform the development of OSCEs in other healthcare professions to support the assessment and evaluation of clinical competencies and skills.
Presenting Author
Ziad Nasr BSc(Pharm), PharmD, BCPS, BCIDP.Qatar University
Authors
Hafsa Shehzad BSc(Pharm) student
Qatar Univerasity