An Undergraduate Course Combining Interprofessional Education and Complementary Health Approaches Learning Objectives: Successful Integrative Learning that Improves Interest and Reduces Redundancy

Abstract

Background: Literature suggests interprofessional education (IPE) and education about complementary therapies for health sciences students may be effectively combined.

Methods: A novel 30-hour, 10-week course for interprofessional undergraduate health sciences students combining IPE and complementary therapies learning objectives was developed and offered in 2012 (N = 71), 2013 (N = 120) and 2014 (N = 140). Pre-post mixed methods measurement occurred in three groups: one taking combined IPE-complementary therapies curriculum, and two control groups (one following non-specialized IPE curriculum, and one following combined IPE-continuing care curriculum). The students' attitudinal changes towards IPE and complementary therapies, and their comfort collaborating with students in other health sciences programs were measured using scales. Qualitative evaluation was conducted via content analysis of team-based reflective essays of their opinions towards what they learned about IPE and complementary therapies, and how it changed during the course.

Results: Quantitative results exhibited ceiling effects, revealing little change or difference between groups on all measures, with the exception of the Health Professional Collaborative Competency Perception Scale which indicated the students taking the IPE-complementary therapies course reported increased comfort collaborating in comparison with control groups. Qualitative results indicated students: increased their awareness and knowledge about complementary therapies, and were inspired to learn more, appreciated the need for collaboration and communication, desired to be more patient-centered, and wove concepts related to IPE and complementary therapies together.

Conclusion: Combining IPE initiatives and basic complementary therapies education can save curricular time, and develop healthcare professionals who appear to be more ready to provide team-based, patient-centered care.

Keywords: Complementary therapies; Integrative medicine; Interprofessional education; Medical education; Mixed methods.