Selecting APPE Rotations.... Any memorable ones?

[JamesL1585]

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Hey guys, does anyone have any advice for selecting rotations? Specifically elective (usually) out-of-state specialty rotations (I.E. FDA, APhA rotations) etc...

Also, do you have one of those rotations that may have been out of your area that you remember as being really awesome and would recommend?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Caverject]

Most, if not all, Indian Health Service rotations are awesome. The only site I remember my classmates having a problem with was in Betencourt North Dakota. I loved mine in Cherokee NC and my classmates raved about New Mexico. Almost everyone I've ever met had a good experience with the VA as well. I know they have Hines Hospital up in your area. Try to check it out if you can

Try to pick the "toughest" rotations you can. You will get the most out of those rotations that will decide what you want to do with your life in the future. When it comes time for picking a retail rotation, try to find an independent pharmacy. Most independents want you to learn the business, not just count pills and stick them in the bottle and educate. There are some exceptions of course, but most will treat you a little better than free labor if you just start asking business questions. I found the business side of the retail experience was most rewarding. Don't be affraid to try something different that you've never experienced before. I got "stuck" with a rotation at Eglin Air Force Base and that was the exact point in my life I decided to join the military to practice pharmacy.

 

[spacecowgirl]

My most memorable was a VA psych rotation. Whoa.

 

[Farmercyst]

I agree with picking "tough" rotations. I tried to get preceptors that I felt had a good grasp on their specialty area from the perspective of former students and avoid ones where they were let out early, no projects, etc. It's easier to learn when you're actually in a learning environment. My thoughts when picking rotations (we only get 6, including 2 electives) was a drug info elective followed by my clinical rotations so that I'd be better prepared to find info I needed and be able to do so fairly quickly. I was lucky to have drug info 2nd and it has helped that way. Otherwise, I did cardio, drug info, peds, peds, community, and amcare. My AmCare I wanted a broad based DSM amcare as opposed to a single disease process. (Asthma+HTN+DM vs Anticoag only) I haven't finished my amcare rotation yet, but I'm hoping it'll help keep my knowledge on those disease states up for board prep, etc.

 

[KARM12]

Hi James. I agree with picking the most challenging rotations you can if you are considering a residency. If not, they just pick whatever. If you have questions about rotations in your area, feel free to PM me. I didn't do any rotations outside of that so I can't be much help in that respect.

 

[IndustryPharmD]

Go for the most variety. Go off and explore things you know nothing about, or will not otherwise have a chance to experience.

And yes, Indian Health Service rotations are awesome.