Inter Professional Education: An evaluation of a joint learning experience for podiatry and pharmacy students

Working with and understanding the roles of other healthcare professionals will
impact on the quality of care of the patient. Interprofessional learning forms part of
the Standards for the Initial Education and Training of Pharmacists2
. The Healthcare
Professionals Council have also identified that allied health professionals will work as
part of a team whose collective focus is the health and well-being of people and
understanding this collaboration is essential.
At the University of Huddersfield second year pharmacy students attend a clinic run
by podiatry students, under the supervision of podiatrists. Following excellent student
feedback it was decided to expand this collaboration and produce a 2 hour
workshop. Tutors from both disciplines met to design and develop case scenarios
based on patients with high risk medical conditions that would impact on the work of
both professions.
Aim: To expose pharmacy and podiatry students to inter professional learning at an
early stage in their careers. Thus developing their knowledge, skills and attitudes to
enhance patient centred care.