Partnering for system change: interprofessional education and collaborative practice and health systems science

The evolving landscape of healthcare underscores the necessity for innovative approaches to health professions education. Interprofessional education (IPE) is one pedagogical innovation in health professions education that supports the development of collaborative practice and team-based care. Within American medical schools, Health Systems Science (HSS) has emerged as a curricular movement aimed at equipping future physicians with a comprehensive understanding of care delivery, interprofessional collaboration, and system improvement. A foundational domain within HSS is "teaming." In this article, we explore four ways Interprofessional Education and Collaborative Practice (IPECP) educators can partner with HSS educators to support the objectives of creating health system citizens and sustainable system transformation for all health professions by: 1) leveraging all health professional learners to learn about the HSS domains; 2) understanding the context of interprofessional teams; 3) including patients as members of the team; 4) and re-conceptualizing leadership. Embracing IPECP concepts within HSS frameworks fosters a holistic view of teamwork, patient-centered care, and leadership, ultimately supporting a cultural shift toward a more integrated and effective healthcare system. This educational transformation is crucial for developing future health professionals who are adept at navigating and improving our dynamic healthcare systems.