Improving geriatric prescribing: interdisciplinary teaching for medical and pharmacy trainees

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• Health Professions Education
• Interprofessional Education

Background:

• Aging population necessitates specialized geriatric care training for health professionals.
• Existing curricula often lack focus on interprofessional collaboration in geriatrics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate an interprofessional education (IPE) initiative for medical and pharmacy students focused on the 5 Ms framework for geriatric care.
• To enhance collaborative approaches in geriatric medication management and prescribing.

Main Methods:

• Curriculum development using Kern's six-step approach.
• Implementation of pre- and post-tests, lectures, and role-play activities over two academic years.
• Descriptive statistical analysis of data from 427 participating students.

Main Results:

• Participants showed increased knowledge in geriatric pharmacotherapy.
• Students reported enhanced confidence in their professional roles and positive attitudes toward interprofessional practice.
• The initiative received positive feedback despite challenges like varying student experience.

Conclusions:

• IPE initiatives utilizing frameworks like the 5 Ms can effectively bridge educational gaps in geriatric care.
• Team-based learning and interprofessional collaboration are crucial for improving geriatric medication management.
• Expansion to include diverse health disciplines can further enhance collaborative educational experiences.