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Engaging student pharmacists in social determinants of health and health equity through photovoice
Journal article   Peer reviewed

Engaging student pharmacists in social determinants of health and health equity through photovoice

Sharon E Connor, Jeanine Abrons, Nancy Borja-Hart, Sally Haack, Lauren Jonkman, Jaime Maerten-Rivera and Gina M. Prescott
American journal of pharmaceutical education, Vol.88(3), 100666
03/2024
DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpe.2024.100666
PMID: 38311214

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of an interactive photovoice activity on perceptions of social determinants of health (SDOH) and health equity among first-professional year student pharmacists. This study used a mixed-methods, exploratory approach at four institutions. All students completed a standardized intervention using a prerecorded lecture, active learning using photovoice, and an in-depth debriefing session. Photovoice responses and reflections were analyzed through a deductive approach using content analysis with the applied frameworks of Rolfe’s reflection model and the social-ecological model. A pre/post survey assessed students’ perceptions of SDOH and health equity. Paired sample t-tests were conducted to assess pre- to post-change. A total of 349 students participated; most students reflected at the “what” level (97.7%), while 65% reached the “now what” level. Students identified more SDOH factors at the institutional/community level (75.9%) than at the individual/interpersonal level (59.4%) or the society/policy level (28.0%); 191 (55%) students had matchable survey data. Statistically significant improvement was found in comprehension of health equity concepts (4 items), perceptions of health disparities and system response (4 items), awareness of structural factors impacting equity (3 items), and readiness for inclusivity behavior (3 items). A structured teaching and learning activity allowed for deeper reflections among student pharmacists. Student perception of the basic terminologies and the impact of beliefs on healthcare improved after the photovoice assignment. While students became aware of the SDOH, they had difficulty identifying structural or upstream factors when addressing SDOH.
Active learning Health Equity Photovoice Social Determinants of Health Students, Pharmacy

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