Building IPECP into community health promotion

Abstract

Due to its culturally and linguistically diverse society, high prevalence of communication disorders, resource limitations, and fragmented healthcare services, South Africa (SA) needs to integrate interprofessional education and collaborative practice (IPECP) into community health promotion. IPECP in health professions education is necessary in preparing ‘collaborative practice-ready’ health care professionals who are socially accountable and prepared to respond to local health needs. Integrating IPECP strategies into existing curricula and placing interprofessional students at the same clinical sites can promote collaborative education and practice. Providing students with interprofessional clinical practice experience provides real world experience and insight, while enhancing an understanding and respect for other professionals.