Cultural Sensitivity and Global Pharmacy Engagement in the United States

• Published in: American journal of pharmaceutical education 2019-05, Vol.83 (4), p.699-715
• Main Authors: Alsharif, Naser Z, Khanfar, Nile M, Brennan, Lisa F, Chahine, Elias B, Law, Miranda, Parekh, Jigna, Kawaguchi-Suzuki, Marina, Hogue, Michael D
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Accreditation; Alaska Natives; Ambulatory care; American culture; Archives & records; Athletic recruitment; College students; Competence; Culture; Education; Educational Opportunities; Ethics; Firearms; Foreign Students; Geographic Location; Hawaiians; Instructional materials; International; International Programs; Keywords; Literature Reviews; Mass murders; Metric system; Multiculturalism; Online searching; Pharmaceutical Education; Pharmaceutical sciences; Pharmacy; Political Issues; Quality Assurance; Quality Control; State Schools; State Universities; Stereotypes; Stereotypes (Psychology); Universities and colleges
• ISSN: 0002-9459; 1553-6467

Objective. To provide a resource for schools and colleges of pharmacy in different regions of the world that are considering sending their students and faculty members to the United States for training. Methods. A literature review (2000-2018) was conducted that involved database and Internet searches using specific keywords and terms. Information was also solicited from authors in different regions of the United States who have hosted international students and faculty members. Recommendations for pharmacists and other health care practitioners on culturally sensitive engagement were formulated. Results. Global engagement between schools and colleges of pharmacy from different regions of the world and the United States is increasing. In addition to various cultural aspects, general information about the US health care system, pharmacy education programs, and pharmacy practice were found to be available to individuals who are charged with organizing and facilitating these exchanges. Common stereotypes and misconceptions about the United States were also identified. Conclusion. For international learners to have an enriching and fruitful engagement while in the United States, an understanding of American culture in general as well as the unique cultural aspects of different regions of the country as provided in this paper is critical. Keywords: cultural competency, cultural sensitivity, global engagement, pharmacy education, pharmacy practice