Enhancing Interprofessional Competencies: A Qualitative Analysis of an ATOSCE with Dental and Optometry Students

The Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is a dynamic educational tool requiring students to alternate between clinician and patient roles, gaining insight into patient experiences and interprofessional communication. This study used an Asynchronous Team-Based OSCE (ATOSCE) to foster competencies aligned with IPEC Core Competencies, assessing its impact on dental and optometry students’ understanding of roles, scope of practice, and patient-centered care.

Goals and Objectives

The goals were to enhance students' understanding of interprofessional roles and responsibilities, foster trust, empathy, and effective communication, and evaluate how interprofessional collaboration supports equitable healthcare delivery, particularly in cases involving barriers to care.Methods/methodology: Methods

Seventy-three dental and 69 optometry students participated in an ATOSCE. Student pairs were either interprofessional (different profession) or intraprofessional (same profession). They alternated roles, completing clinical tasks, assessments, and reflective exercises. Reflection responses were analyzed using Qualtrics Text-IQ for themes.Results: Results

Analysis of reflections revealed a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of disciplines, diseases, and the importance of interprofessional care. Students valued role clarity in improving referrals and fostering holistic care. They emphasized trust, empathy, and respect in building rapport and appreciated patient perspectives, communication, and collaboration. Similarities in communication styles were noted, with emphasis on clarity and conciseness for effective patient education and reduced miscommunication.Conclusions, implications, and curiosities: Conclusion

The ATOSCE offered a valuable platform for interprofessional collaboration, fostering essential skills for holistic, patient-centered care. Students gained practical insights into communication, role clarity, and empathy, preparing them to address healthcare disparities and promote equity. Future research will compare intra- and interprofessional outcomes.