Exploring perceptions, challenges, and opportunities of UDS health professionals’ students and faculty regarding community-based education programs for interprofessional education: A study protocol

Abstract Background Interprofessional Education (IPE) is essential in building Interprofessional collaboration and improving patient outcomes within the healthcare industry. Despite its increasing international adoption, little evidence exists on students’ and faculty especially those within low-resource settings, perceptions and understanding of IPE. The University for Development Studies (UDS) of Ghana, through its community-based education activities such as the Community-Based Education and Service (COBES) and the Third Trimester Field Practical Programme (TTFPP), gives the means for experiential, inter-professional learning. This study aims to clarify the ways UDS health professional students and faculty view, experience, and navigate IPE in these courses with an emphasis on significant challenges and opportunities within a limited resource setting. Methods A qualitative approach will be utilized. In-depth interviews will be conducted among purposively selected students and faculty involved in community-based education and services (COBES) and Third Trimester Field Practical Programme (TTFPP). The data will be analyzed thematically to indicate reiterating perceptions, challenges and opportunities. Anticipated findings Both health professionals’ students and faculty will be expected to enjoy the programs for fostering collaboration, communication, and team learning. However, problems will likely occur with the lack of regular schedules, minimal resources, faculty readiness, and professional hierarchies reported in literature. Great opportunities may exist in systematic Interprofessional projects, reflective sessions, collaboration via online platforms, and support structures by faculty. Conclusion The study hopes to inform the strengthening of community-based programs to enhance Interprofessional learning. Enhanced strengthening of the programs is potentially able to prepare a health workforce that can provide coordinated care in different settings.