Improving Interprofessional Practice and Cultural Competence with Interprofessional Education

Introduction: Interprofessional education (IPE) and cultural competence (CC) training have become a staple in healthcare education programs with the ultimate goal of improving patient care. This study sought to identify the impact of a DEI IPE single-day event on the perceptions of Interprofessional Practice (IPP) and ability to provide CC care in students enrolled in Doctor of Osteopathy, Pharmacy, and Athletic Training programs. Methods: The Interprofessional Collaborative Competencies Attainment Survey (ICCAS) and modified Tool for Assessing Cultural Competence Training (mTACCT) surveys were completed pre/post a DEI/IPE event that included, lectures, case studies, and small group discussions. Results: Overall, IPP and CC knowledge and confidence improved after the event. ICCAS results demonstrated overall statistical significance in five items: communication, collaboration, roles, and two teamwork measures. All items on the mTACCT improved after the event. Discussion: ICCAS results demonstrated improvements in students’ perceptions of their ability to deliver IP care. While the mTACCT demonstrated overall improvement in skills, they highlighted students are consciously incompetent, where students recognize a deficiency but demonstrate a desire for understanding. Implications for Practice The combination of lecture, case studies, and small group discussion was an effective avenue to improve students enrolled in healthcare education programs knowledge and confidence in IPP and DEI. IPE is an effective means of educating students on healthcare concepts that cross all healthcare professions such as DEI and cultural competence. Educational programs should seek out common concepts and values across healthcare education and utilize IPE as a means of delivery and assessment.