Identifying perceptions and themed learning outcomes between pharmacy and dentistry students through interprofessional education and collaboration in the dental clinic

Abstract

Background: The educational value of interprofessional education (IPE) experiences inside a dental clinic are largely unexplored. Increasing research suggests that pharmacists, as medication experts, may positively impact dental care in collaborative settings and dentists, as oral health experts, may provide insightful knowledge and understanding to pharmacists. The purpose of this project was therefore to investigate perceptions and associated learning outcomes of a dental clinic-based IPE experience between pharmacy and dentistry students.

Educational activity and setting: A total of eight pharmacy students and eight dentistry students were paired for this activity. Students were oriented to project procedures and then arranged to meet for one patient visit to the dental clinic. Paired students collaboratively conducted a patient assessment inside the dental clinic with a real patient and discussed any follow-up required. Following this activity, student perceptions were measured using a cross-sectional survey.

Findings: Overall, student perceptions were greatly positive, but students suggested more than one clinic encounter would be ideal for increasing the impact of learning. The primary collaborative learning outcome identified as part of this activity was role clarification.

Summary: Findings support further development of IPE between pharmacy and dentistry students within a dental clinic but call for the redesign of the activity using a longitudinal approach.

Keywords: Collaboration; Dentistry; Interprofessional education; Patient assessment; Pharmacy.