Enablers and barriers to implementing an interdisciplinary experiential learning program for university students in a Canadian rehabilitation centre.
Jordan Eggiman-Ketter, Benjamin Derrough, Dalton L Wolfe and 1 others
PMID 38887696WHAT IT FOUND
Stakeholders identified key barriers to implementing interdisciplinary student programs in rehab centres: clinician workload, logistical complexity, and the need for dedicated coordination.
They suggested embedding these programs early in curricula and appointing a champion to manage the transition between university and hospital settings.
Key findings
01Clinicians expressed concern that adding interdisciplinary student placements would increase their workload and distract from patient care.
02Participants identified a lack of clear logistical structure and resource allocation as primary barriers to implementation.
03Successful implementation was linked to embedding the program early in student curricula and appointing a dedicated coordinator to bridge university and hospital operations.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for PTsWhat it means for OTsWhat it means for SLPs
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What it does not show
The study was conducted in a single rehabilitation centre and university in Ontario, Canada, limiting generalizability to other regions or healthcare systems. The sample size was small (12 participants), and while purposive sampling was used, it may not capture the full range of stakeholder perspectives. The interviews took place shortly after COVID-19 restrictions were lifted, which may have influenced participants' perceptions of logistical barriers and resource availability.
Declared interests
The authors declare that no financial support was received for the research, authorship, or publication of this article.
The easy way to misread this
Do not interpret the stakeholders' support for interdisciplinary learning as evidence that it improves patient outcomes or clinician satisfaction in your specific setting. This study reports perceptions and barriers, not measured clinical or educational effects.