The Virtual Geriatric Assessment Interdisciplinary Team Project: Interprofessional Geriatric Training Against the Backdrop of COVID-19

Abstract

Interprofessional geriatric education programs enhance trainees’ knowledge of older adults, and the valuable contributions health and social care practitioners make to their well-being when specialists work collaboratively. In response to the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, in-person geriatric interprofessional education (IPE) programs were redesigned for virtual delivery. Nineteen virtual programs were held between September 2020 and December 2022. Of the 369 health and social care trainees who participated, 67.2% completed both pre- and post-program surveys. Survey instruments included the Interprofessional Collaborative Competency Attainment Survey (ICASS), which measures perceptions associated with patient-centered, team-based, collaborative care. Significant differences were obtained across ICASS domains, including communication, conflict management/resolution, and team functioning, suggesting that virtual programs may enhance attitudes and perceived abilities for interprofessional collaborative practice. Furthermore, participants’ perceived understanding of older adult needs improved, as did their interest in geriatrics. Results illustrate that virtual geriatric interprofessional (IP) programs may be viable alternatives to in-person opportunities.