The development of a micro-credential digital health training module for pharmacy students in Malaysia

Introduction: Digital health refers to using information and communication technologies in medicine and other health professions to manage illnesses and health risks and promote wellness. It has a broad scope and includes wearable devices, mobile health, telehealth, health information technology, and telemedicine. Studies show a compelling need to develop and establish a training module for pharmacy students in developing countries such as Malaysia. Objectives: The current study aims to report the developmental process of a micro-credential digital health training module for pharmacy students at the International Islamic University Malaysia. Method: The module development was initiated in 2021 to develop a comprehensive telepharmacy training module for undergraduate Pharmacy students in Malaysia. The developmental process was divided into 2 phases. The first phase was a qualitative study conducted among the students, academicians and practising pharmacists to identify the teaching and learning components of a telepharmacy training module for undergraduate pharmacy students in Malaysia. Secondly was the development and official establishment of a micro-credential training module to be offered to future pharmacist in Malaysia to enhance their capabilities for the above purpose. Results: Four key themes were identified from the qualitative study: the conduct of telepharmacy training, learning components of the module, skills required for telepharmacy, and infrastructure for training. All identified themes were incorporated and filed into a university micro-credential format. The developed module is equivalent to a 2-credit hour (CH) course. It is divided into three (3) submodules - theoretical, case-based learning & experiential learning components. The participants are required to physically participate or watch the 20-hour training videos and answer the assessment questions at the end of each sub-module. Four (4) instructors were identified to provide the teaching and learning materials. Conclusion: The developed module is anticipated to play a major role in digital health t raining for future pharmacists in Malaysia, and feedback will be incorporated to improve it over time.