Structured Practical Training (SPT) for pharmacists
About the program
Structured Practical Training (SPT) is the supervised competency-based training period that allows soon-to-be-regulated pharmacists - known as interns - the opportunity to practice their skills in a supervised practical environment before assuming sole responsibility.
The goal of the program is to support interns in their journey to becoming proficient, patient-centred, and outcomes-focused pharmacists by providing them with the opportunity, resources, and support to:
- understand the scope of practice of Alberta pharmacists and the Standards of Practice for Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians;
- apply their professional knowledge and skills to a practical setting, and develop and demonstrate entry-to-practice competencies; and
- identify areas of strength, areas for improvement, and implement learning plans to improve practice accordingly.
The program’s activities and assessments are based on the nine nationally-accepted entry-to-practice competencies developed through the National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities (NAPRA).
Getting started
Before starting the SPT program, you will need to complete a few important tasks and requirements. These will ensure that you have all the information you need to make your training a success.
Upon registration, you will receive a registration number and password. Memorize and safeguard this information - you will use it on a regular basis throughout your career as a pharmacist in Alberta.
The Jurisprudence Learning Module contains important information about pharmacy legislation in Alberta, ACP's standards of practice, and the code of ethics. Log into the module using your registration number and password. You must complete the Jurisprudence Learning Module before you gain access to the online SPT portal.
The online SPT portal is how the program is managed. After completing the Jurisprudence Learning Module, you will automatically receive access to the online SPT portal. Login using your registration number and password. Familiarize yourself with the rules and requirements before seeking a preceptor.
4. Seek an eligible pharmacist to be your preceptor, and submit their information
Seek an eligible pharmacist who is willing to be your preceptor. Eligibility information can be found in the SPT program rules, located in the portal. Once you have found a pharmacist willing to be your preceptor, obtain their registration number and their pharmacy site license number and enter this information into your Profile page on the online SPT portal to send the pharmacist a preceptorship request. The preceptor must then log into the portal to accept the request and accept responsibility for your training before the SPT program can begin.