Needs assessment for training in interprofessional skills in Swiss primary care: a Delphi study

Abstract

Despite the importance of appropriate interprofessional collaboration in health care, it is still insufficiently taught in health professions education. The aim of the study was to conduct a needs assessment among health professionals on the themes and skills to be taught during interprofessional education programs in the context of Swiss primary care. A three round Delphi electronic survey was carried out in order to identify priority themes and skills to be included in such a program. Participants comprised 12 categories of health professionals. Seventy-two participated in the first, 41 in the second and 43 in the third round. Patient communication, case management of chronic conditions, therapeutic patient education, health promotion and prevention, ethics and medication were the most important themes identified. The most important skill was regarded as “to define and then share tasks and responsibilities between professionals”. Sub-analysis revealed that both priority themes and skills chosen differed between health professional categories.