DPT and PA Student Perceptions on an Interprofessional Service-Learning Project for Pain Education in an Underserved Population

Abstract

Interprofessional education (IPE) opportunities are a necessary component of healthcare education that allow students to develop the skills needed for real-world practice. Fifty-four doctor of physical therapy and physician assistant students participated in an interprofessional education service-learning project by delivering musculoskeletal pain education content to underserved communities. Thematic analysis of student reflections revealed the following major themes: patient/client education, interprofessional collaboration and opioid alternative treatment. Implications for future education and practice are discussed.