The impact of student-led interprofessional activity on formulating an obesity management plan: a mixed method study

This study examined the impact of student-led interprofessional activity on knowledge about obesity, communication within a team, and the ability to formulate a shared management plan. A mixed-method approach was used to collect data from students across four health science colleges, including medicine, pharmacy, nursing, and applied medical health. The quantitative data was collected in two stages; the first stage involved a pre-knowledge test and a Performance Assessment for Communication and Teamwork (PACT) Tool test, which were conducted before allowing the students to interview a patient with obesity and write their management plan as uni-professional teams. After attending an obesity awareness day, students were split into two IP teams to develop interprofessional care plans collaboratively. The second stage included post-knowledge tests and post-activity PACT tests. A reflection session was also held to gather students’ perspectives of the IP educational experience. Qualitative data were summarized to identify emerging themes, which were illustrated with relevant quotes from the reflections. Results from the post-performance PACT test showed significant improvement in familiarity with team-based learning, performance, and the learning environment. Key themes that emerged from students’ reflections highlighted the importance of teamwork, shared decision-making, effective communication, accepting and respecting other professionals, and the ability to develop comprehensive care plans. Participants appreciated the roles and responsibilities of each profession and stated that the IP collaboration helped fill gaps in the patient management care plan. In conclusion, interprofessional education can positively influence students’ learning processes and teamwork skills, promoting mutual learning and enabling the development of holistic obesity management plans.