Flexible interprofessional student encounters based on virtual patients: a contribution to an interprofessional...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Interprofessional Education
• Digital Health

Background:

• Coordinating schedules for interprofessional activities presents significant organizational challenges.
• Flexible online learning opportunities, particularly those utilizing virtual patients (VPs), offer a potential solution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of a blended learning approach combining virtual patients with flexible interprofessional student encounters.
• To evaluate the impact of this approach on interprofessional competence and patient awareness.

Main Methods:

• A blended approach was implemented, involving pairs or triads of nursing and medical students from different courses.
• Data collection included questionnaires and group interviews, with analysis of reflective texts on interprofessional competence.

Main Results:

• A significant majority (86%) of students opted for online meetings due to the flexibility offered.
• Participants reported an improved understanding of other professions' roles and competencies.
• A more holistic awareness of patient needs was achieved.

Conclusions:

• The blended online virtual patient approach is a feasible and valuable method for interprofessional education.
• Its flexibility and scalability make it a significant contribution to interprofessional programs.
• This method effectively enhances interprofessional competence and patient-centered awareness.