Paramedic and student midwives' experiences of interprofessional learning

The World Health Organization (WHO, 2010) recognises that interprofessional learning (IPL) in education institutes is an innovative strategy in mitigating the health workforce crisis and improving patient outcomes. Almost 50 years of evidence has enabled the WHO and its partners to conclude that IPL is a part of education that will shape an effective and collaborative workforce, which will ultimately support local health needs. Furthermore, Barr et al (2014) highlighted that IPL should be embedded across university programmes, in order to maximise the learning experiences of healthcare students.

The authors identified a lack of research into IPL between student midwives and paramedic students. The two professions work closely together in the management of pre-hospital obstetric births and emergencies, and the authors believe a greater understanding of each other's roles is paramount to enable optimal patient care.

Twenty-five student midwives and 31 paramedic students participated in an IPL workshop lasting 6 hours.