2020 National Awards for Interprofessional Collaborative Practice Announced

AACP Article

One overall winner and four honorable mentions recognized for interprofessional education in health sciences

Contact: Maureen Thielemans, 703-739-2330 ext. 1022

University of the Sciences in Philadelphia has been selected as the overall winner of the 2020 USPHS IPEC Public Health Excellence in Interprofessional Education Collaboration Award, which was established to acknowledge and celebrate outstanding multidisciplinary efforts to impact community health. Two of the four honorable mentions also included participation from a college of pharmacy.

The winning project, titled “An Interprofessional Approach to International Outreach Experiences” was a collaboration between Pharmacy and Occupational Therapy faculty and students who worked together to treat patients in need during a medical mission trip to Guatemala, according to a USciences press release. The fifth cycle of applications is now open and features a new co-sponsor this year, the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Officers Foundation. Applications are due February 3.

“During these unprecedented and challenging times, the importance of collaboration across professional lines is critical now more than ever,” said Deborah E. Trautman, Ph.D., RN, FAAN, IPEC Board Chair and President and CEO of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. “IPEC and USPHS commend the faculty and students from University of the Sciences, Nova Southeastern University, and Monmouth University for the impact they are having on advancing global health. Their outreach experiences to Jamaica and Guatemala serve as a model for transformative and sustainable international partnerships that are important to improving public health outcomes.”

The USPHS IPEC IPE in Excellence Award acknowledges many successful examples of interdisciplinary education in health professions education. Nominations were evaluated on the scope and impact of their contributions on community health.

“Oftentimes, IPE leaders and champions are working under the radar – acting as true partners within their communities and forging long-lasting alliances to promote population and global health,” adds Pamela M. Schweitzer, Pharm.D., BCACP, Rear Admiral (ret.), U.S. Public Health Service. “It is always an honor to recognize these exceptional programs and individuals. We applaud not only our winners, but also all of the nominees. Their robust passion and commitment have contributed immensely to the work that absorbs us all.”