Incorporating Research into a Postgraduate Year 1 Pharmacy Residency

Abstract

Objective. To implement a longitudinal research experience in the form of an embedded mini-fellowship in a first-postgraduate year (PGY1) residency program. Design. In September 2011, a research module was initiated and research meetings were established on a recurrent basis throughout the residency so that residents would have protected time for academic work. The research module was structured around lecture seminars, statistical analysis workshops, and works-in-progress sessions. Assessment. Two residents completed the initial module and worked on multiple research projects. The projects were assessed by the lead faculty member on the research module based on established learning objectives for the module. The 3 completed research projects were presented at national meeting poster sessions. Five papers were submitted to scholarly journals for peer review. Residents were able to submit their final required project manuscripts just 4 months after beginning the research module. Conclusion. Formalizing the research efforts of PGY1 residents by establishing a research module with protected time ensured residents worked steadily toward established deadlines and met the objectives of the module.

Impact of resident research publication on early-career publication success

“…Many have described guided, structured resident research programs which result in improvements in publication rate and retention of research interest and skills after residency. 31–35 …”

“…31–35 Individuals involved in research programs should possess adequate knowledge, experience, and interest in practice-based research and residency training. Advisory boards help ensure the resident research experience is consistent in quality.…”

The importance of research during pharmacy residency training

“…Under the guidance of a senior research advisor, the two residents were able to present three completed research projects at national meetings and submit five papers for publication during the year. 42 …”

The Value of Pharmacy Residency Training for Health Systems

“…DePietro et al, 2013 36 Review An innovative residency program developed through a worksite-based health and wellness program allowed residents the opportunity to provide direct patient care, perform health screenings, provide patient education, and conduct research, all of which helped improve the health of the sponsoring organization's employees. Swanoski et al, 2012 37 Review A formalized training program that established a research module with protected time for research helped residents complete their projects during the first 4 months of the program.…”