The evolution of a community-wide interprofessional fall prevention partnership: Fall prevention as a vehicle for community and university collaboration and interprofessional education

Abstract

Abstract Background Despite a focus on interprofessional (IP) approaches to healthcare, many providers, researchers and community programs continue to operate in silos. This is not only inefficient and costly, but also inconducive to knowledge translation. Purpose To describe how fall prevention was the vehicle for developing a focused community-wide interprofessional partnership. Method Two HRSA grants supported university faculty in establishing IP training standards within nursing, physical therapy, and occupational therapy curricula. Fall risk assessment/prevention emerged as the IP focus. In parallel, the local health department invested resources in an evidence-based fall prevention program. From these efforts, a community partnership formed and expanded. Discussion The application integrates the CDC's STEADI program with MaineHealth/Boston University's A Matter of Balance program for fall risk evaluation and prevention. Data regarding students' and providers' knowledge of an IP approach to fall risk assessment/prevention are presented. Perceived barriers are also explored, and lessons learned in the partnership building are illustrated. Conclusions The framework presented may be helpful to other communities/programs focused on developing interprofessional approaches to evidence-based chronic condition management.