title: International practice experiences in pharmacy education.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To identify reasons for inclusion of international practice experiences in pharmacy curricula and to understand the related structure, benefits, and challenges related to the programs.
  
  
  METHODS
  A convenience sample of 20 colleges and schools of pharmacy in the United States with international pharmacy education programs was used. Telephone interviews were conducted by 2 study investigators.
  
  
  RESULTS
  University values and strategic planning were among key driving forces in the development of programs. Global awareness and cultural competency requirements added impetus to program development. Participants' advice for creating an international practice experience program included an emphasis on the value of working with university health professions programs and established travel programs.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Despite challenges, colleges and schools of pharmacy value the importance of international pharmacy education for pharmacy students as it increases global awareness of health needs and cultural competencies.
authors.affiliation: College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Campbell University, Buies Creek, North Carolina.
authors.forename: Robert M
authors.initials: RM
authors.lastname: Cisneros
authors.forename: Sarah Parnapy
authors.initials: SP
authors.lastname: Jawaid
authors.forename: Debra A
authors.initials: DA
authors.lastname: Kendall
authors.forename: Charles E
authors.initials: CE
authors.lastname: McPherson
authors.forename: Keli
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Mu
authors.forename: Grady Scott
authors.initials: GS
authors.lastname: Weston
authors.forename: Kenneth B
authors.initials: KB
authors.lastname: Roberts
mesh_terms: D054521:Cultural Competency; D003479:Curriculum; D003625:Data Collection; D004512:Education, Pharmacy / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D038622:Internationality; D016730:Program Development; D012580:Schools, Pharmacy / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D013339:Students, Pharmacy; D014481:United States
keywords: curriculum; global health; international education; international practice experience; pharmacy education