Interdisciplinary Experience Program: Implementation and Feedback

Objective: Chiropractic services had been offered at a federally funded medical facility for several years through an ongoing partnership with the local chiropractic college. The next step was incorporating and evaluating an internship program.

Methods: Additional faculty obtained credentialing at the facility; patient care hours and facilities were expanded. We determined student intern eligibility requirements and established an application process for both a one-hour observation and two-week rotation options. Students were recruited by word of mouth and classroom lectures. Scheduling was set on an individual basis; interns were required to complete an online orientation and acknowledgement. Interns were asked to complete daily diaries sharing experiences, insights, and suggestions at the completion of their experience.

Results: Between September 2014 and February 2015, fourteen students participated in a one-hour observation, two-week rotation, or both, interacting with a variety of providers within the facility. One student applied for an extended clinical teaching assistant (CTA) position in an upcoming term. We review their diaries and elaborate on individual feedback.

Conclusion: Students expand their textbook knowledge to clinical application in a public health facility including observation of routine pediatric and adult medical care, exposure to uncontrolled chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, substance abuse, and mental health issues. Adding chiropractic as an on-site interdisciplinary component assists them in understanding the complexities of patient care in a wide variety of patient presentations. Students have the ability to reflect on their healthcare profession and its role in public health.