The Effectiveness of Pharmacy Students’ Emergency Response Training (PSERT) in Enhancing the Preparedness and Readiness of Pharmacy Students During Flood Disasters in Koronadal City

Abstract

Floods remain a major concern in the Philippines due to their frequent occurrence and significant impact on public health. Pharmacy students are expected to take part in disaster response as future pharmacists. However, they often have limited training and preparedness. In response to this gap, this study aimed to determine the effectiveness of the Pharmacy Students Emergency Response Training (PSERT) in enhancing the preparedness and readiness of pharmacy students during flood disasters in Koronadal City. A quantitative quasi-experimental design was utilized, involving thirty (30) first-year pharmacy students divided into experimental and control groups. A structured 60-item multiple-choice questionnaire was administered before and after the intervention. Results showed that the experimental group’s preparedness improved from a low level (Mean = 15.73, SD = 3.150) to a moderate level (Mean = 23.47, SD = 3.777), while readiness increased from a low level (Mean = 17.20, SD = 3.840) to a high level (Mean = 25.13, SD = 5.083). The control group showed minimal improvement. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in preparedness and readiness, as well as between the experimental and control groups. The findings suggest that the PSERT intervention effectively improved pharmacy students’ preparedness and readiness. Therefore, the study recommends the integration of structured flood disaster training into the pharmacy curriculum.