Attitudes of medical students towards interprofessional education: A mixed-methods study

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0240835
• Publication Date: 2020-10-21T17:35:17Z
• Authors: Joana Berger-Esti...; Hsin Chiang; Daniel Stricker; Alexander Fuchs; Robert Greif; Sean McAleer
• Keywords: Interprofessional Education

Background Interprofessional Education (IPE) aims to improve students' attitudes towards collaboration, teamwork, and leads improved patient care upon graduation. However, the best time introduce IPE into undergraduate curriculum is still under debate. Methods We used a mixed-methods design based on sequential explanatory model. Medical students from all six years at University of Bern, Switzerland (n = 683) completed an online survey about interprofessional learning using scale validated for German speakers (G-IPAS). Thirty-one medical participated in nine semi-structured interviews focusing their experience possible impact it might have professional development. Results Women showed better G-IPAS across (p 0,007). Pre-clinical more positive [Year 1 Year 3 0.011)]. Students correctly defined its core dimensions. They appealed organized interventions throughout curriculum. also acknowledged relevance future performance. Conclusions These findings support early introduction Although realise that fundamental high-quality care, there are obstacles stereotypes overcome. Trial registration ISRCTN 41715934.