An interprofessional community-based program for diabetes education and exercise self-management

An interprofessional group of students were brought together to develop and implement an effective interprofessional, educational and exercise program for older adults with diabetes living in an independent senior living community. Students were from a doctor of physical therapy (DPT), undergraduate nursing (BSN), and masters of public health program (MPH) at the same university. The primary objective of this offering was to develop the Community Partners in a Diabetes Education Program in an interprofessional context to lead to improved student values and beliefs about interprofessional collaboration. The program included weekly activities focused on the self-management of diabetes, including exercise, prevention of complications, and nutrition. Student learning was assessed using the Interprofessional Socialization and Valuing Scale before and after program implementation as well as focus group interviews after the program was delivered. Student learners felt the program was beneficial to the seniors, but that interprofessional interactions were limited and could be improved by increasing opportunities for communication and designating a clear leader.