Examining the interface between interprofessional practice and education: lessons learned from Norway for promoting...

Area of Science:

• Health Sciences
• Social Care
• Interprofessional Collaboration

Background:

• Promoting teamwork in health and social care necessitates understanding the interface between interprofessional practice (IPP) and interprofessional education (IPE).
• A dual-method study in Norway explored this critical interface.
• The study aimed to identify rewards, barriers, and facilitators for both practice and education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the interface between interprofessional practice (IPP) and interprofessional education (IPE) in health and social care settings.
• To assess practitioners' experiences with IPP and administrators' attitudes towards IPE.
• To identify strategies for bridging the gap between IPP and IPE.

Main Methods:

• A two-part study combining qualitative and quantitative approaches.
• Part 1: Focus groups with clinical practitioners to assess IPP.
• Part 2: Online survey with educational administrators to assess IPE.

Main Results:

• Practitioners reported intrinsic rewards from IPP, but extrinsic impacts on patient care require emphasis for managers.
• Academic leaders showed strong support for IPE, but implementation barriers need addressing.
• A gap exists between IPP and IPE, highlighting a need for better leadership education and advocacy.

Conclusions:

• Bridging the IPP-IPE gap requires educating leaders on teamwork resources.
• Linking clinical and educational settings via continuing professional development is crucial.
• Increased advocacy for both IPP and IPE is essential for effective interprofessional collaboration.