Interprofessional Education Program of the University of Tsukuba: A Program to Develop Interprofessional Competence

Abstract

This experience-based educational program is designed to train health professionals to provide a high level of interprofessional care. The program emphasizes practical learning and students’ experience in more than 10 health care professions in clinical settings. Introduced in 2004, the program has been administered jointly by three schools (Medicine, Nursing, and Medical Sciences) of the University of Tsukuba. The program features simulated care conferences and discussions in small groups consisting of students from the three schools. The program also provides opportunities for students to learn the viewpoints of patients and a variety of health professionals as well as the cooperative skills and partnerships required for interprofessional work. The program encourages students to understand the importance of cooperation among health professionals, to understand their expertise, and to learn how to develop the relationships necessary for providing interprofessional care.