The PG Webinar, titled "Integrating Gaming in Pharmacy and Prescribing Skills Training", brought together over 50 participants from 35 universities worldwide to explore two groundbreaking elements revolutionizing pharmacy education: The Pharmacy Game and the emerging role of pharmacists as prescribers.

The Pharmacy Game: Immersive Learning in Action

The first highlight of the webinar was the introduction of the Pharmacy Game, an innovative teaching tool that blends simulation with gaming to enhance student learning and hands-on experience. Already adopted by 10 international universities, this educational program immerses students in realistic patient care and pharmacy-practice scenarios, requiring them to demonstrate and refine key skills such as, Collaboration, Leadership, Communication and Pharmaceutical Expertise.

Claudia Dantuma-Wering, a lecturer at the University of Groningen, shared insights on how this educational modelassesses students’ ability to navigate complex, real-world challenges. The Pharmacy Game not only equips students with technical skills and knowledge but also prepares them to make critical decisions under pressure, fostering readiness for their future roles in healthcare.

Pharmacists as Prescribers: A Transformative Shift

Another focal point of the webinar was the evolving role of pharmacists as prescribers—a development that is reshaping both pharmacy practice and education. This role grants pharmacists greater responsibility in managing patient treatments, creating opportunities for expanded involvement in healthcare delivery.

Adapting Pharmacy Curricula for Prescribing

Vibhu Solanki, Associate Professor at the University of Nottingham, discussed the integration of prescribing skills into the UK’s MPharm curriculum. Solanki emphasized the importance of clinical skills and effective communication in preparing pharmacy students to take on prescribing responsibilities.

At the University of Bath, Katie Weatherley, a Pharmacy Practice Lecturer, highlighted their updated curriculum, which includes workshops, simulations, and the Pharmacy Game. These elements will be used to train students in prescribing skills, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of the expanded role.

The discussion underscored both the advantages and challenges of incorporating prescribing into pharmacy education. Expanded pharmacist roles improve patient care, reduce physician workload, and enhance the profession’s reputation can be seen as an advantage. Yet, educators must balance technical and clinical skill development while fostering critical thinking and communication.

In conclusion, the PG Webinar highlighted how innovative teaching tools like the Pharmacy Game and expanded prescribing roles are transforming pharmacy education. By equipping students with hands-on experience and advanced skills, universities are preparing the next generation of pharmacists to excel in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.

As these educational innovations continue to evolve, they promise to set new standards in training, helping pharmacy students worldwide meet the demands of modern healthcare.