On April 8, 2025, an Interprofessional Education (IPE) event brought together a diverse cohort of over 320 students from multiple institutions and healthcare disciplines. This collaborative experience centered around a simulated patient case, designed to foster interprofessional communication, critical thinking, and team-based problem-solving within a realistic clinical scenario. The event is put on in collaboration with Wake Forest University School of Medicine and Winston-Salem State University.

Participants represented a broad spectrum of healthcare education programs, including students from Winston-Salem State University’s Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Nursing, Healthcare Management, Therapeutic Recreation, Rehabilitation Counseling/Services, Social Work, and Clinical Laboratory Science departments. The event also welcomed students from Wake Forest University School of Medicine’s Physician Assistant Studies program and Forsyth Technical Community College’s Nursing program.

Post-event evaluations are currently under review. The review process aims to identify key strengths—such as team engagement, communication effectiveness, and scenario realism—as well as areas for improvement to further enhance future iterations of the event.

This initiative not only highlights the value of interprofessional education but also reinforces the importance of preparing future healthcare professionals to work in diverse, team-based environments. As we analyze outcomes, we remain committed to refining this collaborative model. The continued success of this event underscores its potential to shape more cohesive healthcare teams and ultimately improve health outcomes for the communities we serve.

We look forward to the continued evolution of this initiative and the positive impact it will have on the development of competent, compassionate, and collaborative healthcare professionals.

As the seasons change, so do opportunities to expand your knowledge and professional skills! Northwest Area Health Education Center (Northwest AHEC) and the Office of Continuing Medical Education at Wake Forest University School of Medicine are offering a variety of engaging and informative programs this spring, summer, and fall.

WSSU School of Health Sciences students, WFUSM Dept. of PA students, and Forsyth Technical Community College nursing students collaborate through Northwest AHEC on an inter-institutional, interprofessional program.

As we spring forward into a new season, Northwest Area Health Education Center of the Wake Forest University School of Medicine is excited to announce our upcoming programs designed to advance the skills of healthcare professionals in all disciplines.

Join us for a day of exploration and learning as we delve into the world of Interprofessional Education and Collaborative Practice (IPECP). Engage with global experts, participate in interactive workshops, and gain practical insights for incorporating IPE into education, practice, and policy.

WSSU School of Health Sciences and WFUSM Dept. of PA Students collaborate through Northwest AHEC on inter-institutional, interprofessional program which simulate management of patient care while integrating EHR Go software. 

We hope you can make plans to join us in Myrtle Beach, SC for this Interprofessional Conference.

WSSU School of Health Sciences and WFUSM Dept. of PA Students collaborate through Northwest AHEC on inter-institutional, interprofessional program which simulate management of patient care while integrating EHR Go software. 

Hi there, Imagine yourself enjoying the sun and listening to the waves...Now make sure you register so you can make that a reality in July!