Implementation of a pharmacy research committee to enhance the pharmacy resident research experience.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Most postgraduate year 1 (PGY1) pharmacy residents complete at least one research project as part of their graduation requirements. The research skills learned prepare residents to address research questions and generate evidence-based recommendations for patient care. However, there are multiple steps involved in a research project, and streamlining this process can be difficult.

EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITY AND SETTING: Northwestern Memorial Hospital (NMH), a large academic center located in Chicago, IL, developed a research committee (RC) to facilitate research within the department of pharmacy for residents and to maintain residency research support materials. These materials included a charter to help guide the organizational structure and operations of the RC, research timelines, and a seminar series.

FINDINGS: The RC works to ensure that the residents overcome any challenges that they may incur during their research projects by setting clear expectations and milestones. Feedback is provided by the residents and incorporated into the research process and support materials.

DISCUSSION: The RC allows for individualized attention and personalization of the research experience for each resident. The program endeavors each year to provide the message that publication should be the final goal of a research project and not presentation at a conference.

SUMMARY: Pharmacy residents receive support from the RC from throughout the year, not only when issues surround their project arise. Institutions may implement or modify existing programs based upon the resources provided.