Monmouth University faculty recently presented on their commitment to interprofessional education (IPE) in the health care sector at the National Academies of Practice (NAP) Annual Meeting and Forum held in Jacksonville, FL. Sherry Greenberg, Ph.D., RN, GNP-BC, FGSA, FNAP, FAANP, FAAN, and John R. Patro, OTD, OTR/L, PNAP, represented the University at the event.
According to Patro, the emphasis on IPE at Monmouth University is reflective of a growing trend within health care education that prioritizes collaborative practice. “IPE prepares future health care professionals to work within team-based models that are increasingly becoming the norm in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and other health care settings. This approach is critical for improving patient outcomes, enhancing the efficiency of health care delivery, and addressing the complex health needs of diverse populations,” he said.
Greenberg’s presentation at the forum focused on the collaborative work of faculty members Denise Crowley, OTD, OTR/L, BCG; Frank Damiani, MD; Gabrielle Hackenberg, OTD, MS, OTR/L; Crista Hogan, MSW, LCSW; and Patrick R. Walden, Ph.D., CCC-SLP. Their efforts highlight collaboration between programs in nursing, occupational therapy, physician assistant studies, social work, and speech-language pathology. “This IPE work is a testament to Monmouth University’s dedication to breaking down silos within health care education and fostering a culture of collaboration,” Patro said.
Patro, who was inducted as a professional member of the Occupational Therapy Academy during the annual meeting, moderated a session on IPE work conducted in Vietnam between Monmouth’s Occupational Therapy department and Robin Mama, Ph.D., MSS, LSW, professor in the School of Social Work. “This international project not only exemplifies Monmouth’s commitment to global health care but also reinforces the universal value of collaborative practice in health and social care environments,” Patro said. Additionally, Patro presented a poster on behalf of Erica Sciarra, Ph.D., DNP, APN, A-GNP-C, CNE, and OTD student and graduate assistant, Cristianna Cardinale, focusing on health and wellness for students who are studying to obtain degrees in the health professions.
Patro noted that the work presented by Monmouth faculty at the NAP annual meeting represents not just the collaboration of five programs across different three schools within the University, but also a blueprint for the future of health care education. “By preparing students to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams, Monmouth University is leading the way in training health care professionals who are not only skilled in their respective fields but also adept at navigating the interprofessional dynamics essential for successful patient care,” Patro said.
“As health care continues to evolve, the importance of such education has never been more critical. Monmouth University remains at the forefront, ensuring its graduates are well-equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow’s health care landscape,” he added.
