Interprofessional collaboration: three best practice models of interprofessional education

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Education
• Interprofessional Collaboration
• Medical Training

Background:

• Interprofessional education (IPE) is recommended by the Institute of Medicine for addressing complex medical issues.
• Effective healthcare delivery relies on interprofessional teams.
• Training future providers in collaborative models improves patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe three university-based interprofessional education curricula models.
• To identify key components and best practices for successful IPE programs.

Main Methods:

• Three distinct IPE models were presented: didactic, community-based, and simulation-based.
• Each model focused on developing interprofessional team skills, patient-centered care, and understanding professional roles.
• Common themes and critical resources for program success were analyzed.

Main Results:

• The didactic model focused on team building and patient-centered care.
• The community-based model highlighted service delivery and health determinants.
• The simulation model emphasized communication and leadership skills through clinical scenarios.

Conclusions:

• A common success factor was fostering understanding of one's professional identity and others' roles.
• Critical resources include administrative support, faculty training, and community relationships.
• Best practices emphasize administrative backing, infrastructure, committed faculty, and student recognition.