Exploring Structures and Processes Supporting Interprofessional Education During Experiential Learning Placements for...

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Education
• Interprofessional Learning
• Healthcare Workforce Development

Background:

• Experiential learning (EL) placements are crucial for student pharmacists.
• Interprofessional education (IPE) aims to enhance collaborative practice.
• Understanding stakeholder perspectives is key to effective IPE implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore stakeholder views on structures and processes for planned and unplanned IPE.
• To identify factors influencing IPE delivery during pharmacy EL placements in Scotland.

Main Methods:

• Online semistructured group interviews with academic staff, practice educators, and EL facilitators.
• Thematic analysis of transcribed interviews, underpinned by systems theory.
• Ethical approval obtained from Robert Gordon University.

Main Results:

• Identified themes: current IPE delivery, factors affecting IPE, and rethinking IPE provision.
• Contextual (cultural, logistical, regulatory) and individual factors influence IPE.
• IPE is vital for developing collaborative competencies, requiring coordinated approaches.

Conclusions:

• Implementing new IPE initiatives presents challenges.
• This study provides a foundation for future IPE development in pharmacy education.
• Effective IPE during placements requires a continuum of learning and collaboration.