The Rural Interprofessional Health Initiative (RIPHI): Engaging Interprofessional Teams and Communities for Health

The UNC Rural Interprofessional Health Initiative (RIPHI) applies a multi-faceted approach to respond to the increasing rural workforce needs in North Carolina and develops interprofessional collaboration opportunities by creating a unique experience where healthcare professionals and students work as a team to implement population-based interventions to improve care. RIPHI has 3 goals 1) to create opportunities for all health professions students to understand the unique needs of rural populations through an interprofessional virtual learning experience (Exposure, Goal 1); to create a longitudinal program for those passionate about rural health (Engagement, Goal 2); and to develop interprofessional practice sites through mentorship and practice support for rural communities (Transform, Goal 3). RIPHI currently engages interprofessional students from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, University of North Carolina at Wilmington, and the University of North Carolina at Pembroke.