Conceptualisation, development and implementation of Interprofessional Education programmes: A qualitative document analysis

Abstract

Interprofessional Education (IPE) occurs when two or more health professionals learn with, from and about each other to improve collaboration within a healthcare team and represents a key step towards the realisation of Interprofessional Collaborative Practice (IPCP) which, in turn, enhances the healthcare outcomes of patients. Many health professions education institutions are taking on the challenge of developing IPE programmes and it is essential to provide evidence-based information to guide these institutions in their journey. We analysed the IPE programmes of six health professions education institutions from High-Income Countries and Low- and Middle-Income Countries according to the 12 steps of IPE programme introduction for health professions. This paper provides a step-by-step guide and ‘to-do list’ to help educators to conceptualise, develop, implement and review their IPE programmes. We recommend that institutions review and contextualise these findings and implement them in their IPE programmes from conception to final review.