title: A de novo model of rational pharmacotherapy training: the interns' perspective.
abstract: Background: Poor prescribing habits can lead to ineffective and unsafe treatment, exacerbation or prolongation of illness, distress and harm to the patient, and higher costs. Rational pharmacotherapy training is very important for reducing poor prescribing practices, especially in developing countries. The aim of this study was to evaluate interns' satisfaction with a rational pharmacotherapy training program at the Department of Internal Medicine of our university. Methods: Rational pharmacotherapy training, designed by the WHO Action Program on Essential Drug Advice, was the subject of the study. Interactive learning methods, such as small group discussions and role-playing, were used as training methods. All of the interns in the class of 2003 participated in the training during their internal medicine internship period. Perceptions of the interns were collected via a 15-item feedback questionnaire. A 5-point Likert scale was used for scoring, and mean values were calculated for every item. Results: Mean values of all items were higher than 4, except for the control item. Interns' satisfaction with the training differed significantly in the third week, which focused on the physician-patient relationship. Interns suggested that this training should be performed in other classes and apprenticeship periods. Conclusions: This was the first training program in Turkey. Rational pharmacotherapy training should be integrated into the medical curriculum and performed using a multidisciplinary approach.
authors.affiliation: Department of Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Bornova-Izmir 35100, Turkey.
authors.forename: Hatice
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Sahin
authors.forename: Fehmi
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Akcicek