MedEdPORTAL (Aug 2013)
An Interprofessional Collaborative Student-Run Clinic by Dental, Nursing and Medical Faculty and Students at University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio for Refugees
Abstract
Abstract Introduction Carrick Institute for Learning and Teaching in Australia defines interprofessional education (IPE) as “Occasions when two or more professions learn with, from, and about each other to improve collaboration and the quality of care.” This is a module for the development and implementation of an IPE student-run clinic at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UTHSCSA) serving the San Antonio refugee population. The overall purpose is to develop as one professional unit providing holistic, collaborative, compassionate, humanitarian, and culturally competent care to this underserved population in a holistic environment. Methods Student will review online learning modules with information relevant to community service learning. Following these online modules, students attend group-discussion sessions. During clinic orientation students complete a cultural self-assessment to help them reflect upon their cultural values. Students have ongoing discussions to reflect upon their professional development and to evaluate how their roles interface with other health profession students. Results Empirical measures on whether or not students are meeting the competencies are assessed through course evaluations and reflection components as well the observation of student professionalism. Faculty evaluates students according to their observation of professionalism, educational skills, and level of patient care during their activities at the pod. Students have presented findings at national and local meetings, conducted needs assessments for the refugees, and collaborated with community organizers. Discussion This education pod has offered opportunities to adopt a way of scheduling for all students and faculty on different semester rotations. Using the refugee community members as interpreters has been instrumental in gaining patients' trust in attending the clinic. Other improvements include obtaining transportation to and from the clinic or to appointments, reduce cultural barriers, and arrange appropriate follow-up care and referrals.
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