VET&PHARM pilot: Exploring interprofessional communication in pharmacy and veterinary students

Background: In the recent context of public health issues, the question of interdisciplinarity in healthcare has emerged as a central area of attention. The VET&PHARM pilot project aimed to test the feasibility of an interdisciplinary health simulation learning activity.
Methods: This simulation activity explored different interactions at the counter of an experimental pharmacy setting, using role-playing scenarios between pharmacy and veterinary students. The study involved an interaction between a pharmacist and a patient, who was also an animal owner, and an interprofessional collaborative interaction through a pharmacist-veterinarian telephone contact. The debriefing focused on the healthcare professional’s actions and their potential effects on patient care or animal care.
Results: The analysis of post-intervention questionnaires highlighted the pedagogical value of the activity in terms of awareness of the importance of communication and collaboration skills and an increase in students’ self-confidence in performing a similar task. The learning reported by participants exceeded the One Health vision expectations.
Conclusion: The pilot interdisciplinary health simulation enhanced pharmacy and veterinary students’ satisfaction and perceived value for learning and future practice.