Our learning journey: Creating continuing education courses for pharmacy team members on First Nations cultural safety and humility in British Columbia, Canada

Abstract

Purpose

Systemic racism across healthcare systems perpetuates health disparities. While pharmacy curricula are changing, most pharmacy team members in Canada have received minimal to no training in First Nations cultural safety and humility. At the time this work was undertaken, no pharmacy-specific First Nations cultural safety and humility courses existed for practicing pharmacy team members.

Description

Two online interactive modules were developed for pharmacy team members in British Columbia, Canada. The first focuses on anti-racism and forming relationships built on trust with First Nations clients. The second focuses on how to approach pharmacy-specific interactions with First Nations clients. Both modules leverage the CARE framework (being Considerate, Aware, Respectful, Empowering). Content was guided by a First Nations advisory group. A pharmacy advisory group helped ensure teachings could be actioned by pharmacy team members.

Analysis

Many lessons were learned throughout this journey. These included the importance of relationships coming first and recognizing First Nations individuals for sharing their experiences. In relation to module content, lessons centered on determining and communicating project scope, having respect for information that is not ours to share and how much language matters. Lessons in the development process included how doing things in a good way takes time and the need to look beyond module content.

Conclusions

These pharmacy-specific First Nations cultural safety and humility modules serve as a good step in affecting change within the profession.

Implications

Having an awareness of the learning and unlearning that took place during our work may help other educators as they develop local culturally responsive projects.