Strategies for Successful Scheduling of IPPE Hours

Conflict between IPPE rotation hours and classes. Course coordinators are sensitive to the challenges of completing IPPE observation hours when there are other courses and activities to be completed. The following are course expectations and strategies to improve scheduling and completion of experiential activities:

1. There is an expectation that pharmacy students will attend classes in which they are enrolled.
2. Participation in an IPPE rotation does not provide an excused absence from class.
3. Instructors from other courses are not obliged to change the way they teach or conduct their course because a student arranges to attend an IPPE rotation.

Strategies for successful scheduling. Course coordinators acknowledge that the above facts may create scheduling tensions. For some students, there may be more difficulty than for others. Please read the below for general suggestions and advice for scheduling IPPE observations:

1. Plan ahead. If you are concerned about a potentially difficult block for scheduling an IPPE, contact the clinical instructor early and speak with them directly either via telephone or in person to ascertain THEIR availability.
   
   Note: Be respectful of the pharmacist’s time and works schedule in scheduling hours.
2. Be flexible in looking at hours. In addition to daytime hours, ask about possible rotations in the evenings and weekends. Some hospitals and community pharmacies have 24-hour coverage. In past years, a number of students have found the evening and “graveyard” shifts to be very unique, good experiences.
   
   Note: Pharmacists may be less available during the Winter Block and during spring break; consider contacting them early to determine clinical instructor availability prior to making personal plans.
3. Sometimes there are solutions that may at first glance seem inconvenient (e.g. an early shift at a practice, during a multiple exam week, or during a break). Please look very carefully at all possibilities when communicating with your clinical instructor.
4. For situations where you cannot find a solution, make an appointment with the course coordinator. Please bring a copy of your class schedule and information about what you and your clinical instructor discussed. We will try to work with you and the clinical instructor to find solutions.
5. Switching of sites is generally not possible given the limitations on availability.
6. The following examples of scheduling conflicts that will not be considered for block extensions or switches include:
   
   1. Work schedule conflicts
   2. Personal time (e.g. vacations, spring break)
   3. Heavy school workload (e.g. multiple exams/projects in one week