Assessing student perceptions of the underserved at a Federally Qualified Health Center

The purpose of this evaluation is to determine student perceptions of caring for underserved patients. Doctor of Pharmacy candidates participating in an experiential rotation at a community health center were assigned to write a semistructured reflection paper upon rotation completion. Retrospective review of the reflections was done to identify common themes and provide insight into students' perceptions of caring for the underserved. Six main themes were identified. Students expressed positive changes in their perceptions toward underserved patients and prior negative misconceptions diminished as a result of rotation completion. A clinical rotation that focused on improving care of underserved patients positively impacted student learning, provided new perspectives, and dispelled prior misconceptions. Experiential rotations involving the care of underserved patients should be emphasized to foster future pharmacists' roles in the reduction of health care disparities and addressing unmet needs in high-poverty communities. (C) 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.