Exploring Structures and Processes Supporting Interprofessional Education During Experiential Learning Placements for Student Pharmacists

Objective: To explore stakeholder views on the structures and processes supporting planned and unplanned interprofessional education (IPE) during experiential learning (EL) placements for student pharmacists in Scotland. Methods: Online semistructured group interviews were conducted with academic staff, practice educators, and EL facilitators (preceptors). Recordings were transcribed verbatim and analyzed thematically. Systems theory underpinned the study. Ethical approval was granted by the School of Pharmacy and Life Sciences Ethics Review Committee at Robert Gordon University. Results: Three main themes were identified: current IPE delivery and context, factors affecting IPE delivery and student pharmacist learning, and rethinking current IPE provision. Stakeholder views provided valuable insights into presage factors relating to contextual elements (cultural, logistical, regulatory) and their influence on IPE delivery and interprofessional learning. EL facilitator and student pharmacist characteristics were also highlighted as influencing factors; process factors included examples of planned and unplanned IPE experiences on offer in community, hospital, primary care, and specialist areas of pharmacy practice; product factors highlighted the importance of IPE to support the development of collaborative competencies. Future developments need to focus on a continuum of IPE learning and a coordinated approach between higher education institutions and placement providers and interprofessional practice teams. Conclusion: Curricular development and implementation of new IPE is not without its challenges. This study has provided a strong foundation that will inform future developments to ensure new initiatives are conducive to supporting effective interprofessional learning during placements.