An innovative clinical interprofessional education experience to advance knowledge and skill in communication with aphasic patients: A randomized controlled pilot study

Background: Because of its impact on communication, aphasia increases patients’ risk for poor healthcare outcomes. Healthcare teams should be equipped to effectively serve this population. Purpose: The primary aim was to pilot the effectiveness of an aphasia communication. partner training program for healthcare students by examining changes in knowledge and behavior. A secondary aim assessed learners' understanding of other healthcare professionals’ roles and responsibilities. Method: Students in pharmacy, physician assistant, and occupational therapy were randomly assigned to experimental or control groups. The former participated in didactic training with speech-language pathology students and mentored interactions with aphasic patients. Both groups completed pre-/post-training knowledge assessments and participated in semi-structured patient interactions. Discussion: The clinical IPE experience resulted in statistically significant differences in aphasia knowledge and associated behaviors. Additionally, learners’ understanding of healthcare professions improved. Conclusions: Clinical IPE experiences are effective at improving clinical communication skills and increasing knowledge of language-impaired populations.