In Fall 2024, GMU College of Pharmacy students had the unique opportunity to engage in multiple interprofessional case presentations alongside students from nursing, medicine, dentistry, and other health professions. These collaborative sessions encouraged students from different disciplines to work together in mixed teams. By participating in ward rounds, discussing clinical scenarios, and jointly preparing comprehensive case presentations, students not only gained insights into their own roles but also developed a better understanding of how to work effectively with other healthcare professionals. This hands-on experience highlighted the importance of teamwork and communication in ensuring optimal patient care.
A significant advantage of this interprofessional initiative is its setting within GMU’s campus hospital. With a fully operational hospital integrated into the university’s infrastructure, pharmacy students naturally interact with peers from various healthcare disciplines throughout their experiential learning years. This immersive environment provides invaluable real-world exposure, as students witness and contribute to the dynamic interplay between pharmacists, physicians, nurses, and other professionals in a clinical setting. Such experiences prepare them to address complex healthcare challenges, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical application.
By fostering an environment of collaboration and shared learning, GMU is equipping its pharmacy students with the essential skills required to thrive in modern healthcare teams. The opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary case presentations ensures that students are not only technically proficient but also “team-ready” upon graduation. This emphasis on collaboration positions GMU graduates as leaders who are well-prepared to contribute to patient-centered care and drive improvements in healthcare delivery.
