How Do We Teach Creativity in Interprofessional Practice? Shaping Collaborative Competencies Through an Interprofessional Health, Arts and Humanities Certificate Program

An Interprofessional Health, Arts and Humanities certificate program was developed in 2019 as an elective in the Interprofessional Education curriculum for students from 12 health and social care programs at a large Canadian university. The aim of the program is to develop collaborative, patient/client-partnered care and to foster resilient practices in future professional contexts using creativity and arts-based methods. The program is designed to advance a deeper understanding of health, illness, suffering, disability, and the provision of health and social care through humanities-based pedagogy.Implementation: The program is offered in two units of four classes each (currently Narrative-Based Healthcare and The Performance of Healthcare Through Creative Play). To receive the certificate, learners complete both units, additional arts/humanities electives, and an interprofessional group project that allows the application of classroom knowledge to future school and work settings. The group product created is not emphasized; rather learners focus on process and are asked to use the artform to foster group discussions that support the objectives of the certificate. Program objectives include demonstration of narrative competence and humility, self-awareness, listening skills and reflexivity, and exploration of narrative practices that promote clinician well-being and resiliency.Evaluation plan: A developmental evaluation (1) is in place to explore the experience of current participants. We seek to gain a deeper understanding of the factors underlying participant responses that will improve the quality and support development and revision of upcoming components and future iterations. Components include surveys and a follow-up focus group.Outcome(s) and significance: The certificate program supports collaborative competency development that enhances relationships with patients/families and team members.