Two University of Queensland rural medical researchers have been awarded the 2021 Interprofessional Global Best Research Award for a state-wide study aimed at enhancing clinical placements.
UQ Rural Clinical School Senior Research Fellow, Dr Priya Martin and Director of Southern Queensland Rural Health, Associate Professor Geoff Argus, received the award for investigating the impact of the Rural Interprofessional Education and Supervision (RIPES) model, which saw students from two or more professions placed concurrently in seven rural sites across Queensland, to facilitate collaborative learning.
The study found that the RIPES model produced significant changes in student attitudes, perceptions, skills, knowledge and confidence in interprofessional practice, and improved their work-readiness.
UQ Rural Clinical School Senior Research Fellow Dr Priya Martin said the contribution of several stakeholders, especially students and clinical supervisors, helped make the study a success.
“We’re pleased we could demonstrate the positive impact and value of the RIPES model towards improving student experiences and work-readiness,” Dr Martin said.
“This award is a reminder that you can be based in a regional centre and still undertake world-class research and make a difference.”
Director of Southern Queensland Rural Health, Associate Professor Geoff Argus said the study, which began in 2016, has resulted in the development and trial of the RIPES model being used across several hospital and health services in Queensland.
“This research will contribute to better patient outcomes and work satisfaction for rural health providers.”
Dr Martin and Associate Professor Argus conducted the study with UQ Associate Professor Anne Hill, Queensland Health’s (QH) Ms Nicky Graham, and Ms Martelle Ford, who also received the award.
Interprofessional Research Global provides two awards every two years to projects from across the globe that are judged to be the best in the field of interprofessional education and collaborative practice.
