Unifying Forces: Exploring the Impact of Interprofessional Integrated Clinical Experiences

This study investigates the benefits and challenges of interprofessional collaborative practice (IPCP) through an immersive clinical learning experience at the Medical University of South Carolina. The program included physical therapy (PT), occupational therapy (OT), and speech-language pathology (SLP) students working with community-dwelling adults with Parkinson's disease.

132 PT, 107 OT, and 6 SLP students (total n = 245) participated in a two-session-integrated clinical experience with individuals with Parkinson's disease and then completed a six-question reflection on the IP Parkinson experience. The study utilized a narrative research approach to analyze students' reflections. An iterative data collection process was used with the data set. Regular meetings were held throughout the study as part of the ongoing data reduction and analysis.

Key findings highlighted the value of a holistic, collaborative approach to patient care, enhancing student learning and patient outcomes. Students reported an improved understanding of interdisciplinary roles, better communication, and increased awareness of how IPCP teams can affect job satisfaction. The challenges, including coordinating goals across disciplines and managing group dynamics, did not overshadow the significant value of the experience. The experience fostered a practice-ready workforce with a positive attitude toward collaborative care, keeping the students engaged and interested in the potential for IPCP.

The study underscores the importance of interprofessional education, incorporating learning environments and experiences that promote transformational learning and the adoption of a collaborative team-based mindset to enhance clinical preparedness and patient care outcomes.