Clinical and educational effects of a new interprofessional program for dental students and dental hygiene students in practical clinical training

Abstract

[Introduction] The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a newly developed Interprofessional Education (IPE) program in clinical practicum for dental and dental hygiene students.

[Materials and methods] Dental and dental hygiene students cooperatively provided periodontal treatment to selected patients. The treatment consisted of a total of two to three sessions in addition to pre-treatment discussions with supervisors, student meetings for information sharing and treatment planning, and self- and peer reflections and assessments of the performance.

[Results] A total of 44 patients were admitted to this program in 2016. Clinically, the mean O'Leary plaque control record score decreased significantly after the dental hygiene students provided instructions on the oral hygiene. Based on the results of the self- and peer assessments and assessment of the performances on the web-based assignments, we demonstrated significant progression in IPE competencies throughout the practice. Furthermore, 95% of the dental students and 85% of the dental hygiene students gave a positive valuation of this program.

[Conclusion] Our newly developed IPE program improved not only the patient plaque control levels, but also the students' awareness as professionals, deepening their understanding of interprofessional collaboration, and supported achievement of our learning objectives.