Promoting interprofessionalism within an academic environment

Abstract

Although clinical laboratory science (CLS) is a vital component of the healthcare system, it is often referred to as the "hidden profession". Patients, as well as many healthcare professionals, are unaware of the specialized training of clinical laboratory scientists. Fortunately, recent interest in interprofessional collaboration has resulted in a number of interprofessional education (IPE) studies. However, there is a paucity of information regarding the incorporation of CLS students in these IPE experiences. The purpose of this study was to incorporate an IPE experience involving CLS and medical students into courses each were involved in, and to obtain student perceptions of the experience. A classroom hematology case-based student learning activity was related to the Interprofessional Education Collaborative (IPEC) competency domains of roles/responsibilities and interprofessional communication. Pre- and post-surveys, which included student self-perception of IPEC competency domains, student assessment of the learning activity, and student reflection were completed by the participants. Significant changes in student perceptions related to all three subcompetencies were noted. Additionally, responses to an open-ended question indicated an increased understanding of another profession's roles, increased appreciation of another health professional, and increased respect of another profession. These findings indicate that IPE experiences may improve clinicians' understanding of the "hidden profession".