Fostering Interprofessional Education within Paramedic Clinical Placements

Abstract

Currently Paramedics only require a level 4 qualification to work as a Paramedic. Research has shown that as the Paramedic Profession moves forward this level of qualification is no longer appropriate. The minimum standard will be a level 6 qualification within the next few years.

There is currently a shortage of Paramedics within the UK. As a result the University of Wolverhampton now offer a BSc in Paramedic Science. 50% of the course is delivered through clinical placements, the majority of which are with our partner Ambulance Service. The remaining placements are with other healthcare providers.

Interprofessional Education (IPE) is an essential part of the Paramedic Curriculum. The World Health Organisation (WHO) have identified that IPE is necessary to ensure collaborative practice between healthcare workers, improve patient health outcomes and mitigate the healthcare worker shortage.

Therefore, how do we ensure that the Interprofessional Placements our students undertake will foster this collaborative practice once they are qualified?