Teaching digital interprofessional collaboration

Abstract

Background: Interprofessional communication in Australian clinical practice has recently shifted from paper records to electronic medical records (EMRs), and there is therefore a need for universities to prepare health graduates for digital communication. Approach: An interprofessional team co-designed and co-facilitated an online interprofessional activity for third year pharmacy and fifth year medical students utilising a simulated EMR (EHR Go™). Students completed a series of profession-specific tasks relating to a simulated patient, then came together in interprofessional groups of 10–12 to establish a collaborative medication charting plan. Evaluation: A total of 640 students participated in the activity, of which 60% (386/640) were medical students. Immediately after the interprofessional workshop, students were invited to complete a voluntary anonymous evaluation. Five-point Likert scales were used to rate the relevance to practice, achievement of learning outcomes, organisation and overall quality of the activity. Students were also asked to contribute qualitative feedback. Of the participants, 28% (180/640) completed the survey, and 53% (96/180) of respondents were medical students. A majority of survey respondents agreed or strongly agreed that the activity was relevant to practice (94%; 170/180), achieved the learning outcomes (84%; 151/180), was well organised (74%; 133/180) and was a quality learning experience (79%; 143/180). The positive feedback focused on appreciating the opportunity to discuss with interdisciplinary colleagues the rationale for admission medications. Constructive feedback included the need for clearer directives regarding pre-workshop activities. Implications: This interprofessional education (IPE) activity presents a feasible, innovative approach to teaching pharmacy and medical students digital communication and collaboration using a simulated EMR. Overall, a majority of learners were satisfied with the learning experience and felt that the IPE activity achieved the learning outcomes and was relevant to practice.