A new study co-authored by three researchers from UCRH, with a University of Sydney colleague, is helping pave the way for how artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to train future pharmacists.
Published in the journal Research in Social and Administrative Pharmacy, the study looked at how conversational AI agents—think chatbots or virtual tutors—are being used in pharmacy education around the world. These tools are designed to help students practice communication skills, manage staff, and even learn about HIV care.
The research team reviewed hundreds of studies and found six that met their criteria. While the use of AI in pharmacy education is still in its early days, the results are promising. Students who used these tools reported feeling more confident and better prepared, especially when it came to communication.
The UCRH team also developed a new framework to help educators evaluate and design these AI tools more effectively. This framework could be used not just in pharmacy, but across other healthcare training programs too.
This is exciting work, and acknowledges that while AI can’t replace real-world experience, it can offer students a safe and flexible way to build their skills.
As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, innovative and scalable training solutions like these could be critical to preparing the next generation of health professionals, especially in rural and remote areas.
