The Formation of an Interprofessional Health Student Organization to Augment Interprofessional Curriculum

University of North Dakota has a strong Interprofessional Education Program, including a classroom experience (Interprofessional Healthcare Course), state-of-the-art simulation center, and other activities such as the PharmD/MD match program and IPE Trivia Night. To further augment the curriculum in a novel way, a student-driven, innovative interprofessional event was created by “Students for Interprofessional Health,” a student organization at the University of North Dakota. “Interprofessional Health Day” was a half-day experience incorporating nearly 350 students from nine different health professional programs.

The event was comprised of a keynote speaker, followed by three learning stations. The stations included an interprofessional panel, case competition, and various simulation experiences. Students were divided into three groups and rotated through the stations during the event.

IRB-approved pre- and post-surveys were distributed to participants, gauging their attitudes around interprofessional collaboration, using an amended form of the Performance Assessment Communication and Teamwork Tool Set. The surveys assessed students' perceptions and benefits of interprofessional training, team structure, leadership, and communication. Survey analysis from before and after the event showed improved perception of many of the areas assessed, demonstrating the benefits of supplementing curriculum with hands-on training experiences that incorporate various health professional students.

Interprofessional Health Day utilized student-driven experiences to supplement standing curriculum. Students were able to engage with their peers from other professional programs, while enhancing their perceptions of interprofessional collaboration. Equipping students with the support and means to engage in novel learning experiences has the potential to enhance and develop new opportunities in interprofessional education.