A student practice experience focusing on the intellectually disabled

ObjectiveTo provide the foundation for unique psychiatric-based experiential rotations to fourth-year pharmacy students that focus on optimizing health care for intellectually disabled persons.DesignThe University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy faculty, Clinical Pharmacology Services unit (three faculty and one administrative support) provides an externally funded pharmacist-based consulting service that specializes in serving intellectually disabled persons. A variety of services is provided to community- and institutionally-based persons and is overseen by the Department of Human Services–Developmentally Disabled Services Division.AssessmentDevelopment of an increased knowledge base for the unique needs of this population and their medication use, as well as the development of enhanced oral and written communication skills are stressed. Students demonstrate their increased grasp of a variety of concerns related to this population through written and oral communications, including presentations, discussions, and participation in treatment activities.ConclusionThe scope and nature of pharmacy practice continues to evolve and expand beyond traditional practice experiences. A number of nontraditional practice areas exist that provide unique practice opportunities for pharmacists. Exposure of pharmacy students to these opportunities is critical to their professional development, as well as for mentoring future practitioners for these specialty practices.