Implementing an Interprofessional Master’s and Certificate Program: A System to Strengthen Communication and Collaboration among Stakeholders

Abstract

Implementing interprofessional programs can be challenging. As we worked toward initiating our interprofessional certificate and master's program, it was apparent that we had a need for a system of communication and collaboration. The system we developed and describe helped us to build an interprofessional partnership and successfully implement our program.In the summer of 2012, the Texas A&M Health Science Center received approval for an interprofessional certificate and master's program entitled Education for Healthcare Professionals (EDHP). During the process of establishing the various courses, recruiting faculty, advertising the program, and admitting and registering students, lessons about how to best navigate the implementation process were learned. Getting the stakeholders on board, developing curricular elements, locating resources, and other logistical factors were essential elements to insure that the EDHP program would be successful.