Can state-supported interprofessional coalitions cure preceptor shortages?

Area of Science:

• Healthcare policy
• Medical education
• Primary care workforce

Background:

• Clinical preceptor shortages negatively impact healthcare provider supply and patient access to primary care.
• The need for effective strategies to support and expand the clinical preceptor pool is critical.
• Existing models in other states demonstrate the potential of legislative incentives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the formation and advocacy efforts of an interprofessional coalition in South Carolina addressing the clinical preceptor shortage.
• To highlight the legislative actions taken to secure government support for preceptor incentives.
• To inform other regions about potential policy solutions for workforce development.

Main Methods:

• Formation of an interprofessional coalition comprising healthcare stakeholders.
• Advocacy for government support and legislative action.
• Analysis of existing state-level preceptor incentive programs.

Main Results:

• A coalition successfully mobilized to address the preceptor shortage in South Carolina.
• Legislation proposing tax credits and deductions for preceptors is pending in the South Carolina legislature.
• The initiative aims to bolster clinical education for future primary care providers.

Conclusions:

• Interprofessional collaboration and targeted government incentives can effectively address clinical preceptor shortages.
• Legislative solutions, such as tax credits, are viable strategies to support healthcare workforce development.
• Policy interventions are crucial for ensuring a sustainable primary care provider supply and improving patient access.