The Integral Role of Organisational Governance in Promoting Interprofessional Education in Rural Settings

One of the key challenges with implementing and sustaining interprofessional education initiatives is the lack of governance structures and processes to guide them. This case study presents a process evaluation of an intersectoral advisory group that facilitated a novel interprofessional clinical education model in rural health settings in the state of Queensland, Australia. The group consisted of health and academic partners to guide the implementation and promote sustainability of this new model. The advisory group process was evaluated mid-way and at conclusion of the group functions, using focus group discussions. The focus group audio recordings were transcribed verbatim and subjected to inductive content analysis. Categories were developed for reporting. Three broad categories were identified: Characteristics of the group, functions of the group and multifaceted communication within the group and between sectors. By identifying and mapping the processes used by a strategic, high-level intersectoral advisory group consisting of members from the health and academic fields, key recommendations have been formulated to guide similar work in the future.