Use of SkypeTM sessions with top cancer trial physicians to bring Interprofessional Education (IPE) into a didactic oncology course

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ObjectiveTo incorporate meaningful Interprofessional Education (IPE) into a core didactic oncology course by bringing into the classroom a series of cancer specialist physicians, from around the United States, who instructed from and discussed their own clinical trials. MethodsThe instructor recruited physicians from selected nationwide cancer centers as well as from more regional institutions. Prior to each IPE session, students pre-read relevant trials or other materials. At an arranged time, an approximately 30-minute Skype™ session began which included student questions. Assessments of student learning included individual examinations and a group trial. Survey data was also collected on student views of interprofessionalism, cancer trial informatics and the role of pharmacists on trial teams. ResultsGroup clinical trials showed substantial student creativity and achievement of new skills in trial design. Essays indicated that students learned as individuals. Survey data showed that prior to the interprofessional sessions, students felt uncomfortable discussing trial designs/results with graduates of other health professions. Following the sessions and group trial assignment, students gained significant confidence discussing trials with physicians and felt increased recognition for the pharmacist’s role in the trial team and increased appreciation for the perspective of trial physicians. Students reported that they enjoyed the opportunity to talk with top cancer physicians. ConclusionsDidactic core courses can be modified to accommodate meaningful interprofessional team education. Considerable time was required to arrange external Skype™ speakers; however, this IPE oncology exercise was very highly rated by students indicating that this was preparatory time well-invested.