A university department merger of midwifery and obstetrics: a step on the journey to enhancing interprofessional learning

Abstract

A first-class maternity service requires effective team working and opportunities for multiprofessional learning. However, it has been found that collaboration and cohesive working between doctors and midwives is not always evident. This paper describes the context for a unique merger of two academic departments, obstetrics/gynaecology and midwifery, with a view to enhancing interprofessional collaboration in teaching and research. Although interprofessional learning, particularly at undergraduate level, can be difficult to design and implement it is argued that it is necessary to enhance multiprofessional teamwork. It was found that a staged programme of action is needed to develop and evaluate curricular initiatives in interprofessional learning. Whilst learning about and valuing each other's roles is as important as sharing curriculum content it can involve an element of risk and considerable resources. Pilot work locally suggests that it is well worth the time and effort involved but long-term success will be dependent upon staff commitment and evaluation of the process as well as the outcomes.