Putting a Face to Disparity and Access Issues: Why Veterinary Medicine Students Need Interprofessional Education (IPE)

• In Event: Access to the Profesions

Abstract

Interprofessional education (IPE), an important component of health profession training, is an accreditation requirement for many health professions programs. However, little is known about what constitutes effective IPE between veterinary medical students and human health professions. The purpose of this study was to explore veterinary medicine students’ perceptions of their interprofessional experiences, to assess the impact of the course, and describe their awareness of access and disparity issues in health care as a result of the IPE course. Focus group methodology was used. Four themes emerged: Recognizing what I might not, Working with other health professions students, Reaffirming career path, and Leadership and professional skills. The findings demonstrated the professional development benefits veterinary medicine students acquired.

Authors

• Linda Behar-Horenstein, University of Florida

• Amara H Estrada, University of Florida

• Daniel Estrada, University of Florida

• Erik W. Black, University of Florida

• Amy V Blue