The implementation of interprofessional education: a scoping review

Area of Science:

• Health Professions Education
• Interprofessional Collaboration
• Educational Program Implementation

Background:

• Interprofessional education (IPE) implementation is recognized as challenging.
• Program success varies based on implementation quality.
• Guidance is needed for faculty to effectively implement IPE.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize evidence on IPE implementation.
• To identify challenges encountered during IPE implementation.
• To extract key lessons for guiding future IPE initiatives.

Main Methods:

• A five-stage scoping review methodology was employed.
• Thematic analysis was used to synthesize findings.
• A framework of micro, meso, and macro levels guided analysis of challenges and lessons.

Main Results:

• Twenty-seven primary studies were included, predominantly descriptive.
• Implementation components were inconsistently reported across studies.
• Key factors identified include socialisation, learning context, faculty development, leadership, resources, administrative processes, education systems, policies, values, and sustainability.

Conclusions:

• Incomplete reporting limits comprehensive evidence on IPE implementation.
• This review highlights significant challenges in IPE implementation.
• Key lessons are provided to assist faculty in successful IPE program development and execution.