Transformation of an Online Multidisciplinary Course into a Live Interprofessional Experience

Area of Science:

• Health Professions Education
• Interprofessional Collaboration
• Team-Based Care

Background:

• Interprofessional education (IPE) is crucial for preparing healthcare professionals.
• Effective collaboration and communication are vital for optimal patient outcomes.
• Early exposure to IPE can enhance students' understanding of team dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design, implement, and evaluate a required IPE course for first-year students.
• To educate students on interprofessional roles and responsibilities.
• To foster collaboration and team-based communication skills.

Main Methods:

• A 1-credit hour IPE course was developed by an interprofessional faculty committee.
• Students participated in didactic lectures, discussions, and standardized patient encounters.
• Students were grouped interprofessionally for weekly sessions.

Main Results:

• 783 students enrolled; 130 completed all assessments.
• Students rated the course moderately valuable (Mean 6.23/10), interesting (Mean 5.61/10), and enjoyable (Mean 5.57/10).
• Positive feedback highlighted the value of the standardized patient encounter and interprofessional interaction.

Conclusions:

• The course provided an introductory interprofessional experience for health professions students.
• It facilitated learning about diverse roles and contributions to the healthcare team.
• This initiative prepared students for collaborative practice through mutual learning.