THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE FACULTY OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES ISSUE FIVE • SPRING 2014
2013:
Year in Review Experiential Education Exploring the Relationship Between Practice Educator and Pharmacy Student
Research Inspired by How Things Work: A Q&A with Dr. Urs Hafeli
IN THIS ISSUE DISCOVER IS THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA FACULTY OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES. RELEASED QUARTERLY, IT HAS THE LATEST INFORMATION ABOUT FACULTY PROGRAMS, RESEARCH, EVENTS AND ALUMNI.
FEATURES
04
2013: Year in Review
EDITOR
06
2014 Professional Development Week Connects Pharmacy Students from Across Canada
Jimi Galv達o
08
Research Inspired by How Things Work: A Q&A With Dr. Urs Hafeli
Jimi Galv達o
09
Inside Story on the Story of Medicines: Six Drugs that Changed the World
EDITORIAL TEAM Julia Kreger
10 Sodium Intake in Hypertension: Recommendations from the Pharmacists Clinic
Ivan Yastrebov
11
Students Encouraged to Attend the BCPhA Annual Conference
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Nominations Now Open for the 2014 BCPhA Pharmacy Awards
Julia Kreger
EDUCATION
12
Experiential Education: Exploring the Relationship Between Practice Educator and Pharmacy Student
15
The Next Entry-to-Practice Program: Spring Update
16
Professionalism at UBC Pharm Sci: Preparing our Students to be Ambassadors for the Profession's Values
Isabeau Iqbal
17
UBC Pharm Sci Co-Hosts Second Medication Reconciliation Interprofessional Event
Lisa Lix
18
Tools of the Trade: A Q&A on Enhancing Academic Writing and Poster Sessions with Isabeau Iqbal and Simon Albon
Glenda MacDonald
RESEARCH 20
Form & Function: A Closer Look at UBC Pharm Sci Laboratories
PRACTICE 22
Interprofessional Education Pilot: The Pharmacists Clinic Teams up with the Faculty of Dentistry at UBC
UPDATES
Raul Scorza
CONTRIBUTORS Simon Albon Michael Coughtrie Patricia Gerber Urs Hafeli Larry Leung Peter Loewen Arti Maharaj Caely-Ann McNabb Jason Min Elise Riedlinger Claire Tai PHOTOGRAPHY Ivan Yastrebov COVER IMAGE Pharmacist and practice educator Maggie
24
Engaging Students Through the Official UBC Pharm Sci Blog
Chui with BSc (Pharmacy) student Kyle
New: UBC Pharm Sci Company Page on LinkedIn
Collins on site at BC Children's and Women's
2014 UBC Pharm Sci Student Society Elections
Hospital. Photo by Ivan Yastrebov. Thanks
Honouring Kenneth Ringrose's Positive Impact on Community
25
UBC Alumni Centre: A Home for Alumni for Life
Volunteers Needed: Multiple Mini Interviews
To share ideas and content for future
Your Evolution
issues, please email:
to Maggie, Kyle and Don Hamilton for their support.
Reunions
pharmsci.communications@ubc.ca
Upcoming Events
Connect with us:
26
Recent Awards, Publications & Presentations
2
2
SPRING 2014
Message from the
Dean Professional Development Program (CPPD) delivers both in person and online learning through accredited courses and tailored training programs to suit specialized needs. Examples include the Canadian Pharmacy Practice Programme (CP3) and Pharmacy Technician Bridging Program. CPPD also hosts an annual alumni update conference featuring workshops, special talks, and a chance to network (the 2014 event was held on March 8).
M
In addition to existing opportunities, the Faculty is continuing arch is a special time in Canada for the profession of
its work on the development of a Flexible Doctor of Pharmacy
Pharmacy. It’s Pharmacist Awareness Month (PAM)
(PharmD) Program as well as a soon to be launched
and each year the Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPA)
Medication Management Certificate Program. There is
partners with pharmacy associations, schools and other
also the Pharmacists Clinic (PC), Canada’s first university-
organizations across the country to promote the important
affiliated, licensed, pharmacist-led patient care clinic. The PC
role pharmacists play in our health care system. The theme
opened its doors in November 2013 and offers opportunities
for this year is “The pharmacist is in!” and CPA has developed
for pharmacist training and collaboration. All of our programs
a number of useful tools and resources to help pharmacies
and facilities offer pharmacists further avenues in which to
engage with their communities. Raising public awareness
enhance their skill sets and enrich their careers.
about what pharmacists do and how their scope of practice is expanding is indeed essential to the development of the profession. However, I believe there is another level of awareness that PAM brings into focus and it is just as valuable.
As the profession continues to evolve, we will continue to offer education, training and professional development that is current, relevant and meaningful. And, we will continue to support other pharmacy schools, associations and partner
Pharmacists, and not just the public, must take an active role
organizations in raising awareness of the profession and the
in raising their own awareness of the profession. Times are
many talented pharmacists who bring that profession to life.
changing in pharmacy and if you scan the health headlines in the daily news you’ll see just how much. Pharmacists should be aware of these changes and what they can do to adapt to
Click here to learn more about PAM. Sincerely,
them for the benefit of themselves and the patients they serve. Professional development is one way to accomplish that. The Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences offers a robust compliment of professional development opportunities for
Michael Coughtrie, PhD
practicing pharmacists and technicians. Our Continuing
PROFESSOR AND DEAN
DISCOVER • SPRING 2014
3
JAN 28
Dr. Robert Sindelar appointed President of Providence Health Care Research Institute and Associate Dean, Research, UBC Faculty of Medicine. more >>
Pharmaceutical Sciences building wins a Wallpaper* Magazine design award. more >>
UBC Pharmaceutical Sciences members honoured at the 2013 Canadian Society for Pharmaceutical Sciences Awards. more >>
Dr. Brian Cairns wins Pfizer Pain Research Award. more >>
Pharmaceutical Sciences Sequencing Centre (PSSC) opens. more >>
AUG 1
American College of Cardiology licensed Dr. Peter Loewen’s SPARCtool to create the AnticoagEvaluator app. more >>
Dr. Michael Coughtrie begins his term as the new Dean of UBC Pharm Sci. more >>
Faculty launches new analytical services suite. more >>
NOV
Annual White Coat Ceremony hosted to welcome incoming students. more >>
OCT 16
Drs. Kishor and Ellen Wasan invent oral formulation of amp B. more >>
OCT 25
JUL 5 OCT 3
JUN 12
UBC Pharmaceutical Sciences launches first student-run pharmacy journal in Canada. more >>
SEP 6
APR 26
MAY 6
JAN 28
JAN 2
2013 REVIEW
UBC Pharm Sci unveils new Story of Medicines tour program. more >>
Pharmacists Clinic hosts first Flu Clinic for members of the UBC neighbourhood community. more >>
APR 4
New monthly UBC Pharm Sci Alumni newsletter launches. more >>
SEP 18
The Impact Media Wall displays short history of residential schools in recognition of Truth and Reconciliation Day. more >>
OCT 3 DEC 2
NOV 18
Dr. Mary Ensom wins 2013 Paul Parker Award. more >>
Pharmaceutical Sciences Building wins Grand Prix d’Excellence de l’Ordre des Architectes du Québec. more >>
Pharmaceutical Sciences Building celebrates one year anniversary. more >>
UBC Pharm Sci student a cappella group kicks off the holiday season with a live performance. more >>
DEC 13
JUN 21 SEP 13
Four B.C. preceptors awarded UBC Pharmaceutical Sciences Practice Educator Awards. more >>
UBC Pharm Sci and AbbVie announce the appointment of Dr. Mary De Vera as Assistant Professor, Recipient of the Professorship in Medication Adherence. more >>
Dr. Carlo Marra and his team help develop an innovative arthritis screening program. more >>
NOV 14
Dr. Michael Coughtrie appointed Dean of UBC Pharmaceutical Sciences. more >>
UBC Pharmaceutical Sciences presents three internationally renowned speakers on women’s reproductive health. more >>
JUN 26
MAR 4
MAR 28
2013 REVIEW
Dr. Peter J. Zed and his team receive Patient Care Enhancement Award from Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists. more >>
FEATURES
2014 Professional Development Week Connects Pharmacy Students from Across Canada by Claire Tai and Lisa Lix
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UBC FACULTY OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
FEATURES
“IT TOOK A DEDICATED TEAM OF 28 UBC STUDENTS AND MORE THAN TWO YEARS TO MAKE THE EVENT A REALITY AND WE ARE PLEASED TO REPORT THAT IT WAS VERY SUCCESSFUL. THE FEEDBACK WE RECEIVED HAS BEEN OVERWHELMINGLY POSITIVE.” - CLAIRE TAI AND LISA LIX, CO-CHAIRS
P
rofessional Development Week (PDW) is a four-day
years to make the event a reality and we are pleased to report
conference for pharmacy students organized by pharmacy
that it was very successful. The feedback we received from
students. The initiative is spearheaded by the Canadian
delegates, sponsors, and the Faculty has been overwhelmingly
Association of Pharmacy Students and Interns (CAPSI), a
positive. When we began this journey two years ago, we did
national organization formed by students from each of the
not have any concept of the scope of what we were trying to
ten Canadian faculties of pharmacy. Each year in January,
accomplish. It was after we had personally attended PDW 2013
the conference rotates to a different university. The objectives
in Montreal that we gained an appreciation of what we needed
of PDW are to provide an opportunity for students to come
to strive for. After releasing our promotional video (click here),
together to network and learn alongside their peers from
the official countdown for PDW 2014 began.
across the nation. CAPSI utilizes PDW to facilitate its Annual General Meeting and National Executive Council elections as well as national pharmacy-related competitions and awards, including the Guy Genest Award; Student Literary Challenge; Compounding, Patient Interview, and Over-the-Counter Counselling Competitions.
As we proceeded down the path of planning we faced some minor obstacles. Early on we realized that Vancouver was one of the most expensive cities to host an event of this scale, and with the majority of conference sponsors located back east, we knew that acquiring the funds to run the conference would be a challenge. Despite this, our team was able to produce an amazing
This year was our year to organize the conference. PDW 2014
event on a tight budget without sacrificing quality. Furthermore,
was held from January 8 to 11 at the Vancouver Sheraton
our sponsorship team truly went above and beyond to secure a
Wall Centre and in spite of inclement weather causing travel
level of sponsorship that allowed us to remain well in the black.
delays across the country, 520 students from each Canadian
Learning to negotiate contracts, network and interact with
pharmacy school were able to attend. The theme of this year’s
sponsors was a new and valuable experience for all of us, one
conference was “Currents of Change” and all components
that we certainly could not have gained from the classroom!
focused on innovations in pharmacy practice. Our aim was to
We hoped that this event would provide students with a better
create a strong educational program so we invited some of UBC
understanding of CAPSI's role, as well as of pharmacy practice
Pharm Sci’s distinguished faculty members to speak such as Dr.
in different regions of the country. Often, our education and
Kishor Wasan, Dr. Peter Zed, Dr. James McCormack, Dr. Bruce
practice is shaped in the context of the province in which we
Carleton, and Larry Leung. For entertainment, we showcased
are trained, but that does not mean that we cannot be inspired
local talent in the form of Stand Up for Mental Health, a
by or share our own ideas with members from across Canada's
comedy troupe comprised of performers who use their mental
pharmacy community. There can only be positive outcomes
illnesses to heal and overcome stigma through humour. One of
from collaborating in this way.
the highlights of the conference was the Health Fair, attended by over 35 exhibitors and UBC-based groups including the Neglected Global Diseases Initiative. It took a dedicated team of 28 UBC students and more than two
CLAIRE TAI AND LISA LIX ARE CO-CHAIRS OF THE 2014 PDW PLANNING COMMITTEE AND THIRD YEAR PHARMACY STUDENTS AT UBC PHARM SCI. IMAGES (Top Left) Claire Tai and Lisa LIx. Image thanks to Brellow Productions. (Right) Roxanne Carr. Image thanks to Adam Smylie. (Bottom) Members of the PSSJ volunteer at PDW event. Image thanks to Esther Chan.
DISCOVER • SPRING 2014
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FEATURES
Research Inspired by How Things Work:
A Q&A with Dr. Urs Hafeli by Julia Kreger
“I AM EXCITED ABOUT OUR NEWEST ENDEAVOUR, THE ENGINEERING OF ANTIBODIES, BEING WORKED ON IN COLLABORATION WITH DR. HORACIO BACH AT UBC. THE TECHNOLOGY HAS COME A LONG WAY AND WE’RE NOW ABLE TO MAKE ANTIBODIES AGAINST ANYTHING.” - DR. URS HAFELI is not enough to heal cancer patients completely, and so we IMAGE Dr. Urs Hafeli kayaking in Indian Arm
A
s spring approaches, so too does the start of the Canadian Cancer Society’s Daffodil Days awareness
campaign. Research in the Hafeli laboratory at the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences is primarily directed at fighting cancer with radioactive pharmaceuticals. We sat down with Dr. Hafeli, associate professor, to discuss his research, its impact and inspirations. Can you tell us about your area of research? Since finishing my Pharmacy degree in Zurich, Switzerland, my research has involved finding better ways of delivering radioactive drugs to tumours, where they irradiate the cancer cells from within the body. Provided the radiation dose is large enough, this kills them. My lab works mainly with beta emitters which are radioactive elements that bombard cancer cells from within a few millimeters with energetic electrons, inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death). Our biggest challenge is to deliver the radiation only to the cancer cells sparing normal tissues and organs. We meet this challenge by targeting the cancer cells as precisely as possible by, for example, combining
often combine it with anticancer drugs that are slowly released from the microparticles into the tumour. What inspired you to pursue this field? The house I grew up in had a huge workshop where, as a child and young adult, I loved to build, rebuild and tinker with electronics, mechanical models, go-carts, pianos and organs. This gave me a lifelong interest in how things work. While in high school, I did a trial internship in a pharmacy and found myself applying my mechanical curiosity to the way drugs work and so I chose to study pharmacy at university. After graduating and working for a few years as a retail pharmacist in a number of Swiss pharmacies, I realized that I was more interested in the mechanics of how drug and drug delivery systems work than in filling prescriptions. So I applied for graduate school and started developing micro and nanomedicines, something that I am still doing and enjoy immensely. I find pharmacy rewarding because it is such a wide field: you are not only the drug specialist, but you also have to know a lot about health and medicine, you’re based in the sciences (biology, chemistry, a bit of physics) and – best of all – you can bring together specialists in many fields from research to engineering.
the radiation with a carrier such as an antibody that targets
What positive impact has your research had? How will it
cell surface receptors. Alternatively, we pack the radiation into
benefit human health in the future?
magnetic nanoparticles or microspheres – tiny microsized particles containing magnetite – that can be injected into the blood stream of a patient and then concentrated in a tumour by fixing a magnet above it. It sounds exotic, but in this way we really can accumulate much more of the radiation in the areas where it is needed. Sometimes though, radiation by itself 8
UBC FACULTY OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
Nanomedicine is a new, emerging field which is developing extremely fast. At the moment, we are working on novel radioembolizing microspheres that clog a tumour’s capillaries and irradiate the tumour from within. The first application of these is in treating liver cancer and we are pursuing
FEATURES this with internal radiologist Dr. Dave Liu at Vancouver General Hospital. I am even more excited about our newest endeavour, the engineering of antibodies, being worked on in collaboration with Dr. Horacio Bach at UBC. The technology has come a long way and we’re now able to make antibodies
Inside Story on the Story of Medicines:
Six Drugs that Changed the World
against anything. We have just engineered our first antibody against pancreatic cancer, and its most exciting feature is that it can be loaded with therapeutic radioisotopes and activate the immune system at the same time, and thus might work as a cancer vaccine. We are also currently planning a clinical trial in which we will test a radiopharmaceutical as a diagnostic imaging agent to detect heart disease or internal bleeding. This would be the first positron emission tomography (PET) imaging agent for these diseases. IMAGE The Six Drugs that Changed the World
What is your vision for your time at the Faculty? During my time here, I want my work to help train new generations of pharmacists and researchers in research techniques and ultimately to improve patient care. I also want to bring new members of my lab into collaboration with
Our Inside Story on the Story of Medicines feature is an ongoing effort to present each particular narrative within the interactive Story of Medicines exhibition. This edition will highlight the Six Drugs that Changed the World exhibit.
current students and postdocs to solve problems and make
On the mezzanine level of the Pharmaceutical Sciences
new discoveries. For example, it’s exhilarating to see summer
Building, there is a square pillar overlooking a digital
students from the undergraduate program step into the lab
screen with the word "LEARN" mounted to it. This is also
environment for the first time and then four months later
the location of the Six Drugs that Changed the World. The
proudly present their research accomplishments. I also love
exhibit presents an informational account on the historical
teaching, mentoring and trying to inspire students with the
context, development, current use and future possibilities
enthusiasm I have for my field and my research.
for each of the following drugs: anaesthetics, penicillin,
When you are not working at UBC Pharm Sci, how do you spend your time in Vancouver?
vaccines, birth control pills and insulin. The screen is touch-sensitive and invites visitors to learn
I love the outdoor playground that is Vancouver. In the winter, I enjoy snowshoeing with my wife and friends on Mt. Seymour, while in the summer I like hiking and kayaking. I also love trying out new restaurants and cuisine. I am a flexitarian: meaning I eat mostly vegetarian but occasionally throw in some meat for variety and convenience. At the moment, my favourite restaurants (all vegetarian) include the Veggie Bowl (Vietnamese), Spicy Vegetarian Cuisine (Chinese), and the Red Sea (Ethiopean/Eritrean). Because a good meal is not complete without good drink, I have recently taken up brewing wine at home. Some of it might even be used in the next Feuerzangenbowle, a German/Swiss winter punch party hosted by the Hafeli Lab every December!
more about the above drugs, which have had an impact on global health. After selecting one of the drugs to focus on, a series of informational modules and images arranged in a timeline format appear. This allows users to interact with the content, read it and then swipe with their finger to slide across the timeline. People that engage with the exhibit also have the opportunity to step into the shoes of a pharmaceutical sciences researcher and learn about the process of creating, testing and marketing a life-saving drug through an interactive game. To play the game, scrambled icons that represent a particular stage in the drug development process must be arranged in the correct order. The Story of Medicines is available for viewing from Monday
DR. URS HAFELI IS AN ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR IN THE FACULTY OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES. HE COMPLETED A BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN PHARMACY AT THE FEDERAL INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY FOLLOWED BY A DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN PHARMACY AT THE PAUL SCHERRER INSTITUTE/FEDERAL INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, BOTH IN ZURICH, SWITZERLAND.
to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The exhibition is free to the public. For more information and to learn about and book available tours, please click here or reach us by email at pharmsci.cmassist2@ubc.ca. - RAUL SCORZA
DISCOVER • SPRING 2014
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FEATURES
Sodium Intake in Hypertension: Recommendations from the Pharmacists Clinic by Larry Leung and Jason Min
provides a comparison of foods with high and low sodium content that can be useful when trying to find alternatives. For a practical summary of other lifestyle measures and their subsequent effects on blood pressure, check out the article “Canadian Hypertension Education Program: Brief Overview of 2004 recommendations” published in the Canadian Family Physician (CFP) Journal by Campbell N. The Faculty’s Pharmacists Clinic understands the importance of proper education around hypertension and cardiovascular health and has recently collaborated with the UBC Health, Wellbeing and Benefits Unit within Human Resources in delivering a staff and faculty traveling health fair. This year's event focuses on heart health and cardiovascular risk. The Pharmacists Clinic offers patients one-on-one appointments at no charge to them for the purposes of developing detailed
H
ypertension is the most common condition seen in
care plans and drug therapy recommendations. Physicians,
primary care and can lead to myocardial infarction, stroke
pharmacists and other healthcare professionals regularly access
and renal failure if not treated appropriately. Pharmacists play
our services for the benefit of patients and will receive a detailed
a major role in helping to optimize hypertension through drug
letter documenting our recommendations after every patient
therapy, but can also reinforce important non-drug measures,
encounter. For more information, please visit www.clinic.
such as dietary reductions of sodium. Many patients know
pharmacy.ubc.ca.
that sodium reduction is important, but don’t understand the amount in their foods and the impact it can have on their blood pressure. The average Canadian eats about 3400 mg of sodium each day. The recommended daily intake for healthy Canadians is 2300 mg per day (about 1 teaspoon of table salt per day). For patients with hypertension, sodium intake should be reduced to 1500 mg per day for those aged 19-50 years, 1300 mg per day for 51-70 and 1200 mg per day if over 70. Reduction of sodium by
LARRY LEUNG AND JASON MIN ARE PRACTICING PHARMACISTS AT THE PHARMACISTS CLINIC. THEY ARE ALSO LECTURERS WITH THE FACULTY OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES AT UBC.
TABLE 1: SODIUM CONTENT OF FOODS (from DASH DIET) Food Group
mg Sodium
Grain products Bread, 1 slice
110-175
Cooked cereal, rice, pasta, unsalted, ½ cup
0-5
Vegetables Canned or frozen with sauce, ½ cup
140-460
systolic and diastolic blood pressure respectively.
Fresh or frozen, cooked without salt, ½ cup
1-70
Patients should be encouraged to follow these simple
Tuna canned, water pack, 3 oz
230-350
Fresh meat, fish, 3 oz
30-90
1800 mg per day can translate to a -5.8/-2.5 mmHg decrease in
recommendations: limit salt in cooking, limit adding salt to food at the table, avoid many canned or prepared foods, review the Nutritional Facts table on food packages, and use other seasonings such as herbs and spices. The table to the right
10
UBC FACULTY OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
Lean meats, fish, and poultry
Dairy Process cheeses, 2 oz
600
Natural cheeses, 11/2 oz
110-450
FEATURES
IMAGE The Fairmont Chateau, Whistler
Students Encouraged to Attend the BCPhA Annual Conference 2014
and innovative business strategies now
The BCPhA Annual Conference 2014
being a true professional.
is being held at The Fairmont Chateau Whistler from Thursday, May 22, to Saturday, May 24, and students are welcome to attend! Join pharmacists from across the province for three days of networking, learning and educational sessions. UBC Pharmacy students are offered a special discounted price of only $125 (compared to the $400 registration fee for members). This covers all meals, the keynote address and sessions over the three days of conference.
available to them - while also ensuring compliance with legislation, practice standards and all other hallmarks of
The conference kicks off on Thursday evening with a Mardi Gras-themed trade show and networking event featuring exhibitors, great food, prizes and the chance to mix and mingle with pharmacy friends and colleagues.
panel discussions covering a range of topics relevant to both the business and the practice of pharmacy. This year’s keynote speaker Doug Stephens, one of the world’s foremost retail industry
third or fourth year students to attend,
and store design to technology and
including free registration and double-
marketing.
html This year's theme is Making It Happen: Implementing Best Practices, exploring how pharmacists can make the most of
of excellence in innovation, community service, advocacy or leadership? Nominations are now open for the 2014 BCPhA Pharmacy Awards, and the new online nomination form makes it to nominate someone.
of Retail Pharmacy” from staffing
bcphastudents.ca/conference-contest.
pharmacist who is a shining example
packed with speakers, sessions and
Association also sponsors a number of
contest rules, please visit www.
pharmacy mentor? Do you admire a
quicker and more convenient than ever
futurists, will explore “The Future
about the conference sponsorship
Do you look up to an outstanding
Both Friday and Saturday are jam-
Each year, the BC Pharmacy
shared accommodations. To learn more
Nominations Now Open for the 2014 BCPhA Pharmacy Awards
Visit www.bcpharmacy.ca/awards to learn more about the terms of reference and individual awards. And be sure to check out the two new awards for 2014 – the Voice for Pharmacy Award and Pharmacy Leadership! The deadline for nominations is Friday, April 4, 2014. -ELISE RIEDLINGER
Friday evening will honour the outstanding pharmacists who are recipients of this year’s BCPhA Pharmacy Awards at a special gala dinner. To learn more, please click here. -ELISE RIEDLINGER, COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, BCPHA
the expanded scope, new technologies
DISCOVER • SPRING 2014
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EDUCATION
Experiential Education: Exploring the Relationship Between Practice Educator and Pharmacy Student by Ivan Yastrebov “EXPERIENTIAL EDUCATION DEFINITELY ENHANCES THE ABILITIES THAT STUDENTS DEVELOP WITHIN THE CLASSROOM. THAT PRACTICAL APPLICATION LED TO A DEEPER, MORE MEANINGFUL UNDERSTANDING OF THE MATERIAL.” - KYLE COLLINS, BSC (PHARMACY) STUDENT
IMAGE Maggie Chui and Kyle Collins, on site at BC Children's and Women's Hospital 12
UBC FACULTY OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
“STAKEHOLDERS PROVIDED THEIR PERSPECTIVES REGARDING BARRIERS TO CHALLENGES TO EXPERIENTIAL EDUCATION, AS WELL AS VIABLE SOLUTIONS.” - DR. MICHAEL LEGAL
EDUCATION
E
xperiential learning has become a staple in a pharmacist’s
clinical rotation and I felt even less prepared than the average
education. At UBC Pharmaceutical Sciences, students
student since the bulk of our didactic learning pertains to
must complete at least 20 weeks of differing placements in
caring for adults.” Despite these reservations, however, Kyle
hospital, community, rural and urban pharmacy settings.
was really looking forward to the challenge of learning in a
For many students, entering a placement for the first time
clinical environment and the opportunity to contribute to
can be a nerve-wracking experience but all would agree that
patient care.
the time spent is immensely valuable. The learning isn’t only for students though. Many practice educators that facilitate experiential learning placements report that helping students enables them to advance and innovate their own practice. To see how this relationship plays out, we talked to Kyle Collins, a UBC Pharmacy student, who recently completed a rotation at the BC Children’s and Women's Hospital with Maggie Chui, a clinical pharmacist and practice educator.
The apprehension Kyle felt soon passed after Maggie helped him settle in. For her, being a practice educator is about giving back to the pharmacy community and influencing practice. Her view was shaped during her experiences as a student. “I learned from my practice educators’ behaviours and recommendations about how to interact with patients and colleagues, how to deal with conflicts, and pretty much every aspect of being a pharmacist,” she recalls. “My practice
Both Kyle and Maggie were extremely excited in the days
educators changed my perspective of pharmacy and positively
leading up to the beginning of the placement. For Maggie,
influenced my career choice to pursue hospital practice.”
introducing Kyle to the clinical practice and its collaborative interprofessional setting was what she was most looking forward to on the first day. “Pharmacy students are able to witness first-hand how our work and recommendations can have immediate and direct effects on patient care,” she explains.
Kyle also found different career path perspectives during his placement. “Something I discovered was my passion for pediatric health care. Before my rotation at Children’s Hospital, I always assumed that I would work with adult patients after graduating,” says Kyle. “Without the chance to gain actual experience within an experiential setting, I might
Kyle’s excitement was interspersed with a bit of nervousness. “Admittedly, I was somewhat nervous about being placed in a specialized hospital,” he says. “I heard from many of my colleagues that there was a steep learning curve for any
have never discovered this unique and rewarding niche.” Maggie found that being a mentor to Kyle provided her with an opportunity to reflect and evaluate her daily practice. “Having
DISCOVER • SPRING 2014
13
EDUCATION to explain my thought process to a student step-by-step serves as a great reminder that the core of my practice is rooted in the basic principles of pharmaceutical care,” she says. “This experience has also made me more attuned to the importance of understanding people’s learning styles and adjusting the way I communicate based on the needs of the student.” In reflecting back on the BC Children’s Hospital placement,
“THE KEY IS TO BE OPEN TO NEW EXPERIENCES. IT’S AN EXTREMELY EXCITING TIME TO BE A PHARMACIST AND THERE ARE MANY NEW OPPORTUNITIES DEVELOPING.” - MAGGIE CHUI, CLINICAL PHARMACIST & PRACTICE EDUCATOR, BC CHILDREN'S AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL
Kyle and Maggie have words of advice to share with students embarking on their first experiential learning experience.
application led to a deeper, more meaningful understanding
“The key is to be open to new experiences,” says Maggie. “It’s
of the material.” After completing his rotation and resuming
an extremely exciting time to be a pharmacist and there are
classes at UBC for his last term, Kyle found that he was better
many new opportunities developing.” According to Maggie,
equipped to solve simulated cases due to the thought process
many students have predefined ideas of what the profession is
and practical skills that he was able to refine during his
about and often miss opportunities to be pioneers and carve
placement. “Both forms of education have been vital to my
out new career paths for themselves. She further explains that
professional development and should be used in tandem to
interprofessional health care teams are eager to work with
prepare our learners for practice,” he explains.
pharmacists as they offer a unique expertise that is integral to patient care. This includes opportunities to help direct care in terms of managing medications as well as implement changes to drug therapy policies and protocols.
As can be seen from Kyle and Maggie’s experience, there is much benefit to experiential learning for both students and practice educators. As the scope of pharmacy practice continues to expand, the mentoring and teaching provided by
Kyle advises to apply lessons learned at the site to what
practice educators will continue to be essential to the training
is being taught in the classroom. “Experiential education
of future pharmacists. And the learning opportunities that
definitely enhances the abilities that students develop within
students provide educators will continue to enhance the work
the classroom,” he says. “I had the opportunity to apply what
of the dedicated pharmacy professionals of today.
I learned over the course of my degree, and that practical
Special Thanks: Don Hamilton We would like to take this opportunity to the sincerely thank and recognize Don Hamilton for his role in helping us with this article. We would also like to wish him all the best in his retirement, which officially begins this April. Don has been a long-time supporter of Faculty initiatives and has made great contributions to teaching and helping students with their professional and personal growth. Thank you Don, for all that you have done for us and our students!
IMAGE Don Hamilton
14
UBC FACULTY OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
EDUCATION
The Next Entry-to-Practice Program: Spring Update by Peter Loewen and Glenda MacDonald
U
BC’s Entry-to-Practice (E2P) PharmD program aims
UBC’s Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences is also committed
to prepare pharmacists as medication therapy experts
to offering a professional doctoral degree for pharmacists with
focused on improving their patients’ health, competent to
a bachelor’s degree wishing to advance their training while
practice pharmacy to its full scope and adapt as this expands,
working full- or part-time. The flexible PharmD will have two
and equipped to lead in reshaping the profession.
components: 1) Coursework, primarily completed by distance
The E2P PharmD comprises a mix of foundational and
(online); and 2) Experiential learning.
pharmacotherapeutics modules during Professional Years (PY)
More information on the Flexible PharmD program is available
1 through 3. Experiential rotations will cover 46 weeks in total,
here. As always, your comments and questions about our new
beginning in PY1, and culminating in 24 weeks of experiential
programs are invited and appreciated.
education in PY4. The program offers electives to support and supplement required learning. Many details about the design of the entry-to-practice program are available on the Faculty’s website here, including a detailed
DR. PETER LOEWEN IS AN ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AND DIRECTOR OF THE DOCTOR OF PHARMACY PROGRAM. DR. GLENDA MACDONALD IS A CLINICAL ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AND DIRECTOR OF THE CONTINUING PHARMACY PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM.
Frequently Asked Questions document that will answer many of
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
the questions we have received through our feedback page in the
peter.loewen@ubc.ca
604-827-1814
last few months.
glenda.macdonald@ubc.ca
604-822-3085
The E2P PharmD program proposal will continue to progress through university approval processes over the coming months, and we anticipate it will be reviewed by the Ministries of Advanced Education and Health in late spring/early summer 2014. DISCOVER • SPRING 2014
15
EDUCATION
Professionalism at UBC Pharm Sci: Preparing our Students to be Ambassadors for the Profession's Values
T
by Patricia Gerber
here are many definitions of professionalism in health care
include its role in the revision of the White Coat Ceremony, a
literature, yet there is no consensus on any one definition.
formal event where first year pharmacy students are welcomed
What is agreed upon, however, is that professionalism is
and inducted into the pharmacy profession. In the fall of 2013,
comprised of attitudes and behaviors. In early 2010, our Faculty
the Ceremony was redesigned to more deliberately instill
undertook a rigorous process to explore how professionalism is
in students a sense of pride and belonging to the profession
addressed in our curriculum, the perceptions of professionalism
and to highlight the ethical and professional responsibilities
of our faculty members and students, and how to best enhance
of pharmacists. The Committee is currently in the process of
our efforts to establish a culture that fosters professionalism.
establishing mechanisms to recognize and administer student
These efforts resulted in the establishment of a Professionalism
awards for professionalism.
Committee, now comprised of one staff, 10 faculty members, and two students. The Committee was charged with providing leadership in the development, implementation, and oversight of professionalism events and activities in the Faculty and curriculum, establishing mechanisms to recognize and administer awards for professionalism, and developing a Code of Conduct (CoC).
As students journey through their years in our Faculty, they transition into becoming professionals and, in doing so, they join a community of health care providers who share the same commitment: improving the health of others and ensuring the welfare of society. While each health care professional has his or her own set of personal beliefs and values, society expects them to exhibit the highest standards of conduct.
The Committee determined that the development of a CoC
Our role as educators is to role model our Faculty’s principles
would be the first priority as it would set expectations and
and responsibilities of professionalism and to prepare our
inform all other tasks. The CoC would explicitly describe
students as professionals-in-training to be ambassadors for our
what professionalism means to our Faculty by establishing
profession’s values.
a comprehensive, operational definition of the professional standards expected of everyone who works and trains in our environment. With broad-based input from faculty members, staff, and students, a CoC was developed and approved by the Faculty in February 2013, and UBC Senate in September 2013. The Committee’s efforts to enhance a culture of professionalism
DR. PATRICIA GERBER IS AN ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR, CLINICAL COORDINATOR OF THE DOCTOR OF PHARMACY PROGRAM AND CHAIR OF THE PROFESSIONALISM COMMITTEE.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: patricia.gerber@ubc.ca
604-813-5390 IMAGES The 2013 White Coat Ceremony
16
UBC FACULTY OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
EDUCATION
UBC Pharm Sci Co-Hosts Second Medication Reconciliation Interprofessional Event by Julia Kreger
F
ollowing on the success of last year, the Faculty co-hosted
professionals,” says Lynda Eccott, interprofessional event (IPE)
a second Medication Reconciliation Interprofessional
coordinator with UBC Pharm Sci.
event on January 13, 2014 in partnership with the Faculty of Medicine and, for the first time, School of Nursing at UBC.
In the past two years, a total of 864 senior Pharmacy, Medicine and Nursing students in Vancouver, Victoria and Prince
“The goal of medication reconciliation is to ensure that
George have been introduced to the importance of conducting
patients are taking appropriate medications for all of their
collaborative medication reconciliation to reduce medication
medical conditions throughout each transition in care,” says
errors and improve patient safety.
Dr. Judith Soon, assistant professor at UBC Pharmaceutical Sciences. “This interprofessional training opportunity for undergraduate students is unique in Canada and we welcomed a 27% increase in participants this year.”
“As these students move into clinical practice, they will understand that medication reconciliation is a routine standard of practice in both acute and community care,” says Dr. Arun Verma, instructor.
Background course materials, including a 30-minute videocast, were posted on UBC Connect one week prior to the event. Participants were divided into 51 groups of eight Pharmacy, Medicine and Nursing students who worked together to review a complex medication reconciliation case and compile their recommendations. Final debriefing sessions on interprofessional roles and consensus building on recommendations were held in the Pharmaceutical Sciences Building and Life Sciences Centre.
The event was co-coordinated by UBC Pharmaceutical Sciences faculty members Drs. Judith Soon, Arun Verma, and Ms. Lynda Eccott; and UBC Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Lesley Bainbridge and Dr. Linlea Armstrong. In addition, Dr. Stan Bardal (UBC Medicine), Dr. Karen Joughin (UBC Medicine), Dr. Tarnia Taverner (UBC Nursing) and Dr. Anita Lo (Fraser Health Authority) contributed to the session. Offsite facilitation was provided by Dan Martinusen (Vancouver Island Health Authority) and Dr. Fraser Black (Island Medical
“It is essential that health care practitioners engage
Program), Aleisha Thornhill, (Northern Health Authority)
in
as
and Dr. Keri Closson (Northern Medical Program). Thanks
miscommunication accounts for approximately 70% of
also to Jessica Hartley, Deborah Phillips and John Cheng for
medical errors causing adverse outcomes. That’s why these
their contributions.
collaborative
practice
around
patient
safety,
interprofessional learning events are so important for the development of our students as well-rounded health care
IMAGES Pharmacy, Medicine and Nursing students collaborating on a Med Rec case study
• SPRING Jun.2014 IMAGE (L-R) Glenda MacDonald, Sheila Kwan, Louise Healy, Ying Gu, Virginia DISCOVER Kwong, Jenny Hong, Sheryl Peterson, Sandi Hutty, Youna Choi and Jennifer
17
EDUCATION
Tools of the Trade: A Q&A on Enhancing Academic Writing and Poster Sessions with Isabeau Iqbal and Simon Albon by Raul Scorza
E
veryone has struggled when attempting to clearly and succinctly communicate their research in a paper or on
a poster. How does one write effectively and engagingly in academia? How can one craft a poster that will turn heads and enhance networking opportunities at a conference? I sat down with Isabeau Iqbal, Educational Developer and Simon Albon, Senior Instructor & Acting Associate Director, Office of Educational Support and Development (OESD) at UBC Pharm Sci to find out. Why is writing essential in academia? ISABEAU: Research is at the centre of academia, and one of
“WRITE WHO YOU ARE! YOU MUST HAVE FAITH THAT THE PROCESS OF WRITING WILL BRING OUT YOUR OWN VOICE AND BREATHE LIFE INTO YOUR WORK IN THE WAYS YOU WANT IT TO. ” - SIMON ALBON, SENIOR INSTRUCTOR
the central aspects of doing research is to share your findings; publications are just one way to do so. As researchers, we also have an ethical responsibility—to our funders and others who support our research—to communicate our findings. SIMON: I would add that UBC is a research-intensive institution. The dissemination and publication of our research is central to what we do here. It is made available through various means: articles, posters, presentations to colleagues, and even blogs or wikis. Part of our responsibility as faculty members is to disseminate that knowledge not only to our academic communities but also to the broader public.
18
UBC FACULTY OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
EDUCATION Is there a gap between what is perceived by readers to be
SIMON: I like poster sessions because they provide the breadth
good writing and what academics publish?
of work that is going on in a particular field, area or conference
ISABEAU: Yes, I think there is a lot of poor academic writing. But my interest is not in exploring why that gap exists – it is in doing something about it! I have a writing group, and my peers have taught me so much about strengthening my writing. It is just like any muscle: exercise your writing muscles and you’ll become a stronger writer. I also believe that you will improve more quickly if you engage in regular and ongoing peer reviews
– the full range of research and activities. It is a fabulous opportunity to network with all kinds of people. I see poster sessions as a vital part of the dissemination process and making your research public. Posters require you to think very carefully about the work and how to present it succinctly. Posters are an important aspect of the writing process itself and a step towards publishing the work in peer reviewed journals.
with colleagues.
What makes a poster work?
SIMON: I think the gap does exist. For example, writing that
ISABEAU: Often, the people running a conference will have
is rooted in the sciences requires objectivity, but this necessary
guidelines that specify some of the elements of the poster;
stance may make the writing come across as unemotional
follow these always.
or dry. I also agree with Isabeau. Finding someone to write collaboratively with and practicing are part of the process.
When you’re designing your poster, make sure you audience can read the text from three feet away. Copyright is another specific
What can writers do to transmit the importance of and
issue for which you want to follow the rules. Generally though,
enthusiasm for their research?
balance visuals with text. And, always get some feedback from
ISABEAU: Regardless of your discipline, several of the rules for good writing apply. Having said that, I believe it is easier in some disciplines as compared to others to take literary risks. I
colleagues before you print your poster. When I view a poster, I expect to see something that is inviting, whether it is a topic, a visual, or an idea. In a way, this is no different than writing.
think, however, that all authors should be willing to push the
SIMON: In my early attempts at creating posters, you could
boundaries of style. Using questions, including stories, varying
hardly see any space between the words! I wanted to inform
your sentence length, switching to first-person – all of these
people about the rigour of the ideas and the work, but everyone
are characteristics of basic, good writing. Though it’s true that
just passed by. Then I realized – there is a real aesthetic piece
science journals have less first-person submissions, the notion
to posters. When you are walking amongst rows of posters, the
that unconventional articles are constantly rejected is not a
ones that catch your eye are the ones you stop at. A good poster
fact, as found by Dr. Helen Sword in her research on academic
has a mix of clear, succinct text and quality graphics.
writing in “Stylish Academic Writing.”
How can readers implement the recommendations on
SIMON: A lot of the writing in education is so dense that it turns people off. It is hard to follow if the reader has limited familiarity with educational theory and jargon (keep it simple). I have also read good science articles that cleverly use analogies
academic writing and poster skills you have gone over? ISABEAU: Start small. There are safe ways to start to flesh out your writing, like placing a quote or posing a question.
rooted in everyday experience. Writing also rests on being self-
SIMON: Write who you are! You must have faith that the
reflective. Ask pragmatic questions such as, “Is this something
process of writing will bring out your own voice and breathe
I would like to read?”
life into your work in the ways you want it to.
Let’s switch gears now. Why are poster sessions such a critical
ISABEAU IQBAL IS A CURRICULUM PROJECTS COORDINATOR, OFFICE OF EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT AND DEVELOPMENT. SIMON ALBON IS A SENIOR INSTRUCTOR AND ACTING-DIRECTOR OF THE OFFICE OF EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT AND DEVELOPMENT.
component of seminars and conferences? ISABEAU: They are conversation starters. That is what I love about poster sessions. They are an opening and an invitation to start a conversation, and typically, much more conducive
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
to doing so than a paper. Whatever you are writing, whatever
simon.albon@ubc.ca
604-822-2497
you are sharing in terms of your research; that is what you are
isabeaui@mail.ubc.ca
604-827-5690
doing: entering a conversation.
DISCOVER • SPRING 2014
19
RESEARCH
Form & Function: A Closer Look at UBC Pharm Sci Laboratories by Raul Scorza
THE LABS ARE DESIGNED WITH THE NEEDS OF RESEARCHERS AND STUDENTS IN MIND. THIS REFLECTS THE FACULTY’S STRATEGIC PLAN AS IT STRIVES TO PROVIDE STUDENTS WITH LEARNING FACILITIES THAT LEAD TO PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND NETWORKING, WHILE ENSURING THE BEST DATA CAPTURE FOR RESEARCHERS.
20
UBC FACULTY OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
RESEARCH
T
he design of the Pharmaceutical Sciences Building
facilitate accessibility, and a convenient grid of multiple
has captivated the interest of students, scientists and
connection points that offer electrical services. All of these
architectural enthusiasts around the globe. Its long list of
upgrades contribute to the Building’s open lab system, where
accolades is proof that the building is a noteworthy expression
instead of a closed lab for a single, principal investigator,
of what leading pharmacy practice, education and research
teams of three researchers (on average) collaborate and share
looks like. Yet, the awe the structure inspires is not the result
equipment and space. This fosters a special degree of flexibility
of notable looks alone – it is the product of a mixture of form
that can meet the future growth and adjusting demands of the
and functionality. That functionality stands on impressive
Faculty without re-hauling infrastructure or compromising
foundations: the laboratories of the Pharmaceutical Sciences
user and equipment safety.
Building.
For more information about research facilities and equipment
Seven kinds of laboratories exist within the facility’s walls:
at the Pharmaceutical Sciences Building, please contact Dr.
Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics; Pharmacology and
Barbara Conway.
Toxicology; Biomolecular and Pharmaceutical Chemistry; Pharmacy Practice; Clinical Pharmacy; Pharmacogenomics and Dry Research Labs. Each of these labs facilitates research
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: baconway@mail.ubc.ca
604-822-2390
activities that are accommodated within four research module types. Together, the modules (key spatial units that measure 3.2 metres in width by 7.3 metres in length) make up the entirety of each laboratory. Type #1 encompasses Life Sciences and Biology; Type #2, Chemistry; Type #3, Small Room Suite (which are procedure rooms) and Type #4 facilitates dry bench experiments. Over 50 modules are dedicated to research across these types – 62 to be precise! The Pharmaceutical Sciences’ labs are designed with the needs of researchers and students in mind. This reflects the Faculty’s strategic plan as it strives to provide students with learning facilities that lead to professional development and networking, while ensuring the best data capture for researchers. The laboratories house a state-of-the-art array of instruments built by leading manufacturers from around the world. These instruments include a laser confocal microscope built in Japan, a laser microdissection and imaging system from Canada, a centrifuge assembled in Germany, and a shielded radiation fumehood made in Italy. Innovative instruments are only some of the improvements the Faculty’s research facilities experienced when moving from the George Cunningham Building. These improvements include a bench system that eases re-arrangement, a structural bay that helps move laboratory equipment via pathways that
IMAGES (Opposite) Close up of equipment in the Pharm Sci labs, (Above) Lab space
DISCOVER • SPRING 2014
21
PRACTICE
Interprofessional Education Pilot: The Pharmacists Clinic Teams up with the Faculty of Dentistry at UBC
by Raul Scorza
in the Nobel Oral Health Care Centre, where dentistry students assessed patients with missing teeth requiring dentures. Most of these patients were older, and taking multiple medications to treat multiple chronic medical conditions. During
the
first
appointment,
pharmacy
students
interviewed the patients about their medication histories (in conjunction with the dental students), completed drug therapy assessments, identified drug therapy problems and prepared recommendations. The students then presented a summary of their findings to the patients and dental students one week after their initial session. In addition to providing direct supervision during the patient visits, the role of the Pharmacists Clinic team was to review and provide feedback on the pharmacy students’ recommendations before heading into the second session. In total, 22 patients between the age ranges of 51 to 95 years participated in this interprofessional patient care activity. Eighteen of those patients were referred for follow-up at the
T
Pharmacists Clinic to resolve drug therapy problems identified he World Health Organization defines interprofessional
by the students. When possible, the pharmacy students also
education thusly: “When two or more health professionals
participated as observers in these follow-up appointments
learn about, from and with each other to enable effective
by assisting Clinic staff with electronic medical records and
collaboration and improve patient health outcomes.” At UBC
taking patient blood pressures.
Pharm Sci, that definition has recently been put into practice thanks to a pilot collaboration with the Faculty of Dentistry.
With the help of the Pharmacists Clinic, the IPE activity provided students with an opportunity to experience direct
In January, 2014 the Pharmacists Clinic team, together with
patient care while learning more about the scope of practice
the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science’s Interprofessional
of dentistry as it relates to medication management. The
education (IPE) coordinator, Lynda Eccott, enabled 27
activity also highlighted the flexible role pharmacists can play
second-year pharmacy students to collaborate in the care of
in caring for their community and being instrumental in a
patients with 54 students from the Faculty of Dentistry. The
healthcare team that comprises different disciplines.
main goal of this interprofessional activity was for students to learn about each other’s scope of practice around the context of medication management.
For more information on the Pharmacists Clinic and IPE, please contact Barbara Gobis, Lynda Eccott or click here.
Each pharmacy student volunteering in the pilot was
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
assigned to work with a pair of dental students in the DENT
barbara.gobis@ubc.ca
604-827-0313
420 Introduction to Prosthodontics (IPROS) Module. The
lynda.eccott@ubc.ca
604-822-0733
pharmacy students attended two separate appointments held
22
UBC FACULTY OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
ARE YOU
HARBOURING A
HAZARD?
A Message from the Pharmacists Clinic Team Unused or old medications (including supplements, natural health products, herbal products, and vitamins) are a health, safety and environmental hazard when stored or disposed of improperly. The BC Poison Control Centre receives over 70 poison calls each day, with medications being one of the most common poisons. Flushing old medications increases the load of medication residue in surface water systems (lakes, streams and some community drinking water supplies). Environmentally responsible procedures exist for people to safely dispose of old or unwanted medications. The Pharmacists Clinic at the UBC Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences is a registered participant in the B.C. Medications Return Program, and is ready to receive your unused or expired medications (at no charge) for safe disposal. It only takes a few minutes: 1. Go through your cupboards and medicine cabinets at your home. 2. Any prescriptions filled over a year ago and any products (vitamins, natural health supplements, cold remedies, etc.) past the printed expiry date on the package should not be used and should disposed of safely. 3. Bring these expired medications to the Pharmacists Clinic any time between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday to Friday. Thank you in advance for your participation and best wishes for a safe and hazard-free 2014! For more information call Michele Mayorga at 604-827-2584.
Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences
The Pharmacists Clinic Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences Level 2, 2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC Canada V6T 1Z3 http://clinic.pharmacy.ubc.ca pharmacists.clinic@ubc.ca
UPDATES that with this blog because it will allow applicants to see each other’s questions and to benefit from seeing the answers.” The Faculty's admission process will also benefit from seeing the questions that applicants have. While the blog is a great tool for discussing admissions and sharing information with students, casespecific questions are better suited for discussion with Student Services
Engaging Students Through the Official UBC Pharm Sci Blog The Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences has ventured into the blogosphere to give current and prospective students a transparent platform for the admissions process and student life in its Official UBC Pharm Sci Blog. Integration with the Faculty’s social media channels provides students with an online space to have their voices heard and obtain answers to their questions. Jennifer Chatterton, director of Student Services, hopes to address one of the most common questions from students: "How do admissions work?" Prospective students often take to online forums to create a dialogue on the probabilities, requirements and process of admissions to a higher-education program. As wellintentioned as these forums might be, a chance for misinformation to spread exists. This is precisely where the UBC Pharm Sci Blog comes into play. “Our goal for the blog is to connect with our prospective applicants in a new way and to create an admissions process that is as transparent as possible,” she says. This year alone, the Faculty has experienced a significant increase in applicants – 100 more than last year. A key observation that Chatterton highlights is that most applicants ask the same types of questions through email. “The problem with email is that only one student receives the answer to their question. We hope to correct 24
directly. To view our blog, click here. - RAUL SCORZA
PhUS Yoshi Ito (President) Melissa Patton (Secretary) Laura Palle (VP Internal) Mitchell Prasad (VP External) Charles Choi (VP Public Relations) Julie Chang (Communications Officer) Benton Attfield (VP Finance) Thomas Wierzbicki (Sponsorship) Jason Alessio (Sports Coordinator) Aliya Daulat (Senator) Mandy Chung and Ying Wang (VP Socials). - IVAN YASTREBOV
New: UBC Pharm Sci Company Page on LinkedIn The Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences has recently launched a LinkedIn company page. On it you can find information on our Faculty, degree programs, and updates on the accomplishments of our faculty and staff members. To view the new page and follow it, please click here. Don’t spend much time on LinkedIn? There are other ways to stay connected. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube to receive the latest updates about the Faculty, our programs and other pharmacy news. - IVAN YASTREBOV
IMAGE Ken Ringrose. Image courtesy of the Ringrose family.
2014 UBC Pharm Sci Student Society Elections
Honouring Kenneth Ringrose’s Positive Impact on Community
The Pharmaceutical Sciences Graduate Student Society (PharGS) and Pharmacy Undergraduate Society (PhUS) recently held their executive elections. Congratulations to the newly elected student executives:
Kenneth Ringrose’s BSc(Pharm)’68, deep and resounding belief in community service is the focus of his namesake award, created by his family to honour his legacy.
PharGS Natalie McCormick (President) Jose Carlos De La Vega (VP Finance) Shona Sedlock (VP External) Tullio V Esposito (VP Internal) Ankur Midha (Social Coordinator) Jonathon Campbell (Sports Coordinator) Seungil Paik (PDW Rep) Julia Varela (GSS Rep).
UBC FACULTY OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
Click here to learn about how you can contribute to his Memorial Award fund that will benefit our Entry-to-Practice students who are making a positive impact in their communities. - CAELY-ANN MCNABB & ARTI MAHARAJ
UPDATES UBC Alumni Centre: A Home for Alumni for Life alumni UBC (formerly the UBC alumni association) is partnering with UBC to build a dynamic new Alumni Centre. Alumni are the foundation of UBC and this new facility will be located at the heart of the Vancouver campus. This will be the first Alumni Centre of its kind in Canada and a key resource for alumni as they visit one of the world’s most beautiful campuses, network, do business, develop their careers and satisfy their intellectual, cultural and social interests. To learn more about this exciting new space, please click here. IMAGE Artist's impression of the new Alumni Centre. Image thanks to alumni UBC.
Volunteers Needed: Multiple Mini Interviews We need your help to determine who your future colleagues will be! Join us in interviewing our potential students during our Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI) on Saturday, May 3 or Sunday, May 4. This process helps determine which applicants will be accepted into the Pharmaceutical Sciences Entry-toPractice Program. There’s no one who knows what it takes to be successful in our program and as a pharmacist better than our alumni! Contact Caely-Ann McNabb at caely-ann.mcnabb@ubc.ca or 604-827-1411 if you’re interested.
Your Evolution If you’re a UBC grad working on a great project at UBC or in the community that is making a difference, we want to hear from you. Share your project, get support from fellow alumni, and win great prizes! Contact Caely-Ann McNabb at caely-ann.mcnabb@ubc.ca or 604-827-1411.
Reunions Are you from the Class of 1974? Mark your calendars! Your class will be celebrating its 40th Anniversary Reunion on September 20, 2014. Details will be sent out soon! If your class is celebrating a milestone reunion this year or in 2015, contact Caely-Ann McNabb at caely-ann.mcnabb@ubc.ca or 604827-1411. She can help your group and provide access to the award-winning Pharmaceutical Sciences building.
Grey campus. Now UBC REC and alumni UBC invite you to re-live the experience of scaling a 12 foot wall with four of your friends.
Upcoming Events
Thursday, March 27, 2014 The program begins at 6:30 p.m. with a reception to follow. Hotel Eldorado, 500 Cook Road Kelowna, BC, V1W 3G9
UBC Dialogues: Richmond Urban-Suburban Divide: Can you build the life you want at a price you can afford? How might your family, career, health, and quality of life be affected by where you live? And how is the issue of cost affecting the demographics of our cities and suburbs? Wednesday, March 19, 2014 6:30 - 9 p.m. UBC Boathouse 7277 River Road, Richmond, BC Alumni Races at Storm the Wall 2014 For more than 30 years, Storm the Wall has been an iconic event on the Point
Sunday, March 23, 2014 Student Union Building – Ballroom The Next Step: Making the Pitch (Okanagan) Learn how to perfect your elevator pitch at The Next Step: Making the Pitch event in the Okanagan
Pharm Sci Alumni Research Symposium: Save-the-date! Seven of our star alumni will be presenting on their ground-breaking research that is making a global impact. Friday, September 26, 2012 Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown Hotel, 1128 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC More details to come. - CAELY-ANN MCNABB
DISCOVER • SPRING 2014
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UPDATES Recent Awards, Publications & Presentations AWARDS Drs. Mary Ensom & Daniel Rainkie - received the CSHP National Pharmacotherapy Best Practices Award (Sponsored by Merck Canada Inc.) for the following project/paper: Rainkie D, Ensom MHH, Carr RR. Pediatric Assessment of Vancomycin Empiric Dosing (PAVED), completed at the Children’s and Women’s Health Centre of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC. Dr. Kishor Wasan - invited to join the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences Fellowship Committee to replace Bob Sindelar.
Dr. Peter J. Zed - Patient Care Enhancement Award from the Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists. PUBLICATIONS Arendt-Nielsen L, Cairns BE. Pain: what poisons are revealing about its mechanisms. The Lancet Neurology. January 2014. Volume 13. Issue 1. Pages 22-23. DOI: 10.1016/S1474-4422(13)70289-8 Cheryl Y. Gregory-Evans, Xia Wang, Kishor M. Wasan, Jinying Zhao, Andrew L. Metcalfe, Kevin Gregory-Evans. Postnatal manipulation of Pax6 dosage reverses congenital tissue malformation defects. J Clin Invest. 2013; doi:10.1172/JCI70462 Victoria Wood, Lynda Eccott and Lesley Bainbridge. Blended Active Learning Pilot: A Way to Deliver Interprofessional Pain Management Education. Pharmacy. 2013; 1(2): 218-227. Marra F, Chong M, Henry B, Patrick DM, Kendall P. Effectiveness of neuraminidase inhibitors in preventing hospitalization during the H1N1 influenza pandemic in British Columbia, Canada. Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy 2013; doi: 10.1093/jac/dkt496 Gregory-Evans CY, Wang X, Wasan KM, Zhao J, Metcalfe AL, Gregory-Evans K. Postnatal manipulation of Pax6 dosage reverses congenital tissue malformation defects. J Clin Invest. 2014 Jan 2;124(1):111-6. doi: 10.1172/JCI70462. Kagan L, Gershkovich P, Wasan KM, Mager DE. Dual physiologically based pharmacokinetic model of liposomal and nonliposomal amphotericin B disposition. Pharm Res. 2014 Jan;31(1):35-45. doi: 10.1007/s11095-013-1127-z. Sadatsafavi M, FitzGerald JM, Marra CA, Lynd LD. Dispensation of long-acting beta agonists with or without inhaled corticosteroids and risk of asthma-related hospitalization: a population based study. Thorax. 2013 Nov 26. doi: 10.1136/thoraxjnl-2013-203998. [Epub ahead of print]. PMID: 24281327 Davis JC, Bryan S, Marra CA, Hsiung GY, Liu-Ambrose T. Challenges with cost-utility analyses of behavioural interventions among older adults at risk for dementia. Br J Sports Med. 2013 Nov 6. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2013-092743. [Epub ahead of print] PMID: 24195918 Marra CA, Grubisic M, Cibere J, Grindrod KA, Woolcott JC, Gastonguay L, Esdaile JM. Cost-utility analysis of a multidisciplinary strategy to manage osteroarthritis of the knee: Economic evaluation of the PhiTOA study. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2013 Nov 18. doi: 10.1002/ acr.22232. [Epub ahead of print]. PMID: 24249680 Najafzadeh M, Johnston KM, Peacock SJ, Connors JM, Marra MA, Lynd LD, Marra CA. Genomic testing to determine drug response: Measuring preferences of the public and patients using discrete choice experiment (DCE). BMC Health Serv Res. 2013 Oct 31;13(1):454. [Epub ahead of print]. PMID: 24176050 Sadatsafavi M, Lynd LD, FitzGerald JM. Post-hospital syndrome in adults with asthma: A case-crossover study. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol 2013; Accepted October 2013. Davis EM, Lynd LD, Grubisic M, Kopec JA, Sayre EC, Cibere J, Esdaile J, Marra CA. Responsiveness of health state utility values in knee osteoarthritis. J Rheumatol. 2013 Nov 1. [Epub ahead of print]. PMID: 24187098 Bashir J, Cowan S, Raymakers A, Yamashita M, Danter M, Krahn A, Lynd LD. A cost-effectiveness analysis of a proactive management strategy for the Sprint Fidelis recall: a probabilistic decision analysis model. Heart Rhythm , 2013 Dec;10(12):1761-7. PMID: 24076445. Chen W, FitzGerald JM, Rousseau R, Lynd LD, Tan WC, Sadatsafavi M. Complementary and alternative asthma treatments and their association with asthma control: a population-based study. BMJ Open 2013;3:e003360. doi :10.1136/bmjopen-2013-003360. Cloutier A-M, Greenfield B, Lavoie A, Lynd LD, Tournier M, Brabant M-J, Moride Y. Effectiveness of risk communication interventions on the medical follow-up of youth treated with antidepressants. Psychiatry Research 2013; 209(3): 471-8.
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UBC FACULTY OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
UPDATES
Sadatsafavi M, Lynd LD, Marra CA, Bedouch P, FitzGerald M. Comparative outcomes of leukotriene receptor antagonists and long-acting betaagonists as add-on therapy in asthma: a population-based study. J Allerg Asthma Clin Imunol 2013; 132(1): 63-9. Sadatsafavi M, FitzGerald JM, Marra CA, Lynd LD. Costs and health outcomes associated with primary versus secondary care after an asthmarelated hospitalization, a population-based study. CHEST 2013; 144(2): 428-35. Raymakers AJN, Mayo J, Marra CA, FitzGerald M. Diagnostic strategies incorporating computed tomography angiography for pulmonary embolism: A systematic review of cost-effectiveness analyses. J Thorac Imaging. 2013 July 9. [Epub ahead of print] PMID: 23846107 Sharma V and McNeill JH. Metabolic and Contractile Remodelling in the Diabetic Heart: An Evolutionary Perspective. In: "Diabetic Cardiomyopathy: Biochemical and Molecular Mechanisms" Turan B and Dhalla N (Editors). Springer Publishers, New York. Advances in Biochemistry in Health and Disease 9:27-40, 2014. Kendrick J, Ensom MHH, Steer A, White C, Kwan E, Carr RR. Standard-Dose versus High-Dose Acyclovir in Children Treated Empirically for Encephalitis: A Retrospective Cohort Study of Its Use and Safety. Pediatric Drugs. 2014 Feb 5. [Epub ahead of print] PMID: 24497110 Sachs-Barrable K, Conway J, Gershkovich P, Ibrahim F, Wasan KM. The use of the United States FDA programs as a strategy to advance the development of drug products for neglected tropical diseases. Drug Dev Ind Pharm. 2014 Feb 11. [Epub ahead of print] PMID: 24512098 Ng K, Mabasa VH, Chow I, Ensom MHH. Systematic Review of Efficacy, Pharmacokinetics and Administration of Intraventricular Vancomycin in Adults. Neurocrit Care. 2014;20:158–71. Campbell JR, Marra F, Cook VC, Johnston J. Screening immigrants for latent tuberculosis: do we have the resources? CMAJ 2014; Feb 13 {e pubmed} PRESENTATIONS Dr. Kishor Wasan - "Development and Evaluation of a Novel Oral Amphotericin B Formulation for the Treatment of Systemic Fungal Infections and Drug-Resistant Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL)," January 16, 2014, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, Canada. Dr. Peter J. Zed - "How to Write a Research Paper and Get It Published," CSHP Professional Practice Conference (PPC), February 1-5, 2014, Toronto, Canada. Dr. Peter J. Zed - "Adverse Drug-Related Events and Emergency Department Visits: Opportunities and Challenges for Pharmacists," CSHP Professional Practice Conference (PPC), February 1-5, 2014, Toronto, Canada. Legal M, Rahmatian D, Collins K, Gerber P, Kim-Sing A, Loewen PS, Zed PJ - The path forward: solutions from a province-wide universityhealth authority engagement initiative. Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists, 45th Annual Professional Practice Conference, Toronto, ON, February 1-5, 2014. [Poster] Gamble A, Shah K, Tkachuk S, Rahmatian D, Collins K, Legal M, Loewen PS, Zed PJ - Exploring innovative institutional learner-preceptor models across health disciplines: a systematic review. Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists, 45th Annual Professional Practice Conference, Toronto, ON, February 1-5, 2014. [Poster] Legal M, Rahmatian D, Collins K, Billingsley M, Carriere F, Gerber P, Kim-Sing A, Zed PJ, Loewen PS - Opportunities to enhance institutional experiential education in British Columbia: learner perspectives. Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists, 45th Annual Professional Practice Conference, Toronto, ON, February 1-5, 2014. [Poster] Legal M, Rahmatian D, Collins K, Gerber P, Kim-Sing A, Zed PJ, Loewen PS -Institutional pharmacists’ perspectives on precepting: a comprehensive province-wide study. Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists, 45th Annual Professional Practice Conference, Toronto, ON, February 1-5, 2014. [Facilitated Poster] Fernandez O, Gorman SK, Slavik RS, Semchuk WM, Doucette D, Bannerman H, Lo J, Shukla S, Chan W, Benninger H, MacKinnon NJ, Bell CM, Slobodan J, Lyder C, Zed PJ, Toombs K - What are the appropriate clinical pharmacy key performance indicators for hospital pharmacists? Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists, 45th Annual Professional Practice Conference, Toronto, ON, February 1-5, 2014. [Poster]
DISCOVER • SPRING 2014
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