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Learning Support for International Pharmacy Graduates Seeking Licensure in Canada

Note: The Pilot Program to Prepare for Practical Training (P4T) concluded in December 2022. NAPRA thanks all P4T mentors and mentees for making the project a success. While the mentorship component is now completed, the Diagnostic Tool and Learning Modules (DTLM) introduced as part of P4T continue to be available online to pharmacy professionals and other interested participants, with no prerequisites or requirements. To learn more: NAPRA Diagnostic Tool and Learning Modules.

The National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities (NAPRA) launched the Pilot Program to Prepare for Practical Training (P4T) as part of efforts to facilitate a smoother entry to pharmacy practice in Canada for international pharmacy graduates (IPGs). P4T was specifically designed to address the learning and skill gaps that have been identified as barriers to success for IPGs seeking to become licensed pharmacists in Canada. Among the tools and resources at the disposal of IPGs are the P4T diagnostic tool and three learning modules (DTLMs), which are available online.

The diagnostic tool is an interactive resource that assesses three areas of knowledge, identifying specific gaps in knowledge and experience and offers opportunities for improvement. Based on the results provided by the diagnostic tool, IPGs will receive feedback, and then access to the learning modules is unlocked. The three learning modules help candidates to further develop their knowledge and skills relevant to Canadian pharmacy practice.

The three areas of knowledge addressed are:

  • Knowledge of the Canadian healthcare system
  • Cultural diversity and awareness
  • Professional communication

Since the launch of P4T, over 330 IPGs have enrolled in the DTLMs. An overwhelming majority of participants surveyed reported satisfaction with the diagnostic tool and the learning modules, finding the learning platform easy to navigate, the program well-structured, and the content engaging. Participants shared that the learning modules increased their understanding of the knowledge and skills required for practice in a Canadian setting and that they felt better prepared to meet the requirements of the pharmacy regulatory authorities for licensure in their respective jurisdiction.

Recurring comments highlight that the modules related to diversity and communications were instrumental to many IPGs’ understanding of, and appreciation for, the need for conscious and deliberate communication in order to be effective in Canada’s highly multicultural environment. The simulations of real-life scenarios provided in the learning modules are also frequently cited as helpful in grasping and retaining key points and learnings.

Participation in this learning program is beneficial to IPGs seeking to assess their skills and knowledge, fill identified gaps and increase their confidence in successfully completing the formal assessment tests required to become a licensed pharmacist in Canada. IPGs who meet the eligibility criteria listed below and wish to apply to participate in the Diagnostic Tool and Learning Modules are invited to complete an application.

Eligibility criteria:

  • Be an international pharmacy graduate (IPG)
  • Can show proof of meeting NAPRA’s language proficiency requirements
  • Have successfully completed the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada’s Evaluation Examination

For further information or any other questions, contact the P4T team at p4t-4pf@napra.ca.

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