Using Actors as Simulated Patients for Interprofessional Education

Interprofessional education (IPE) in health profession training is recognized as a key to improving patient care in practice settings. Though recognized as extremely important, implementation of IPE remains a challenge for many health profession programs. Despite challenges, the seven health profession (HP) programs at D’Youville College initiated IPE using healthcare simulation with professional actors serving as simulated patients. Faculty from chiropractic, dietetics, nursing, occupational therapy, pharmacy, physical therapy and physician assistant programs collaborated in this year-long implementation process. This manuscript provides a description of the planning, delivery and assessment of this innovative interprofessional simulation and the creation of the campus Interprofessional Clinical Advancement Center. Students reported enhanced understanding and respect of professional roles and responsibilities and ability to communicate effectively. Faculty reported an ability to encourage interaction and collaboration among HP students. Suggestions for curricular improvements and program sustainability included professional development and compensation. This manuscript should assist other health professional programs seeking guidance to implement and evaluate interprofessional education in academic institutions.