Andrew Steller, O'Rourke Clark

ABSTRACT

The emergence of the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS CoV) created unprecedented challenges for healthcare delivery and professional education worldwide. Pharmacy education, particularly advanced experiential rotations, was profoundly affected by temporary hospital closures and restricted clinical access. This commentary reflects on the adaptations, lessons learned, and innovative strategies implemented during an evidence-based pharmacy practice rotation in response to the MERS-CoV epidemic. Through adaptive learning approaches, virtual engagement, and reflective practice, pharmacy students maintained continuity of experiential education while contributing meaningfully to clinical understanding and public health preparedness. Insights from this period highlight critical strategies for enhancing resilience in pharmacy education during future public health crises.