Postgraduate Interprofessional Case-Based Learning in Childhood Cancer: A Feasibility Study

Abstract

This paper presents a feasibility study assessing the acceptability, demand, implementation, and practicality of postgraduate interprofessional case-based learning in childhood cancer at Copenhagen University Hospital—Rigshospitalet. Healthcare professionals included nurses, doctors, social workers, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, pharmacists, pharmacologists, dieticians, nursing assistants, and professionals with a supportive function (teachers, secretaries, priests, and daycare workers). All participated in a postgraduate interprofessional case-based learning session. Feasibility was assessed using Bowen’s focus areas of acceptability, demand, implementation, and practicality. Before and after the intervention session, three measurement tools were used 2–3 weeks before participation and 3–4 weeks after participation to collect data: Assessment of Interprofessional Team Collaboration Scale, Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale, and Safety Attitudes Questionnaire. Representing 13 occupational groups, 49 participants completed the case-based learning sessions, indicating acceptability and practicality. The pre- and post-intervention questionnaires were completed by 79% of the participants, 88% of whom rated the professional content as good or very good. A change over time was detected on all three scales measuring mean difference post-intervention scores. The outcome measures can be used to assess the effect of the intervention. Postgraduate interprofessional case-based learning in childhood cancer is feasible in terms of acceptability, demand, implementation, and practicality. Implementation requires leadership commitment at all levels.