Interprofessional scenario-based learning for new graduates in a regional setting: A pilot study

Introduction: Globally there is an increased emphasis on the provision of high quality healthcare and improved productivity under mounting nancial constraints. Interprofessional collaboration and practice are considered crucial in promoting teamwork and optimising patient outcomes. However, there is a lack of structured, evaluated interprofessional learning opportunities for graduates in regional and rural health services in Australia. is pilot study reports on a novel interprofessional new graduate learning program that was developed and implemented to address the lack of structured post-quali cation interprofessional learning opportunities in the Central Queensland Hospital and Health Service. Methods: Twenty-one participants enrolled in the six-month program, which consisted of six ninety-minute sessions. A mixed method exploratory design was used to collect data using the Interprofessional Socialization and Valuing Scale before and a er the program, and a re ective summary at program completion. Results: Results indicated that participation in the program had a positive e ect on participants’ a itudes, beliefs and behaviours regarding interprofessional practice as measured on the Interprofessional Socialization and Valuing Scale. Various themes about the usefulness of the program to participants were elicited from the re ective summary data. ese included enhanced understanding of interprofessional practice, increased con dence in own professional role, improved understanding of the roles of other professions, increased collaboration with others, improved patient outcomes and improved networking with colleagues. Conclusions: It was concluded that the new graduate interprofessional learning program was a feasible and e ective way to facilitate interprofessional learning among health graduates in a regional health service.