The benefits of a multiprofessional education programme can be sustained

Abstract

Improved understanding by third-year medical students about the professional roles of doctors and midwives in the care of labouring women following a multiprofessional education programme have been previously reported. Following a clinical attachment in the fourth year, the previously observed changes in awareness of professional responsibility were maintained in the same group of medical students and in some areas enhanced. We believe that a short multiprofessional course early in the medical curriculum can change awareness of professional responsibility. Further, we have evidence that these attitude changes were maintained and enhanced following a clinical attachment later in the educational programme. This reinforcement of multiprofessional experiences may enhance working practice after graduation.