Pre-Departure Training is Essential for Preparing Healthcare Teams for Service-Learning to Resource-Limited Countries

Authors

  • Suzanne Fox Trotter University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences
  • Sharon Dunnivan-Mitchell University of St Augustine for Health Sciences
  • Sharon Dunnivan-Mitchell University of St Augustine for Health Sciences
  • Nicole Borman University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences
  • Nicole Borman University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences
  • Aimee Kent University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences
  • Aimee Kent University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences
  • Brianna Oliva Results Physical Therapy
  • Brianna Oliva Results Physical Therapy

Abstract

Introduction: Limited research exists on effective pre-departure training (PDT) for interprofessional healthcare disciplines participating in international service-learning (ISL), particularly to resource-limited settings.

Method: A convenience sample of 21 physical and occupational therapy students and clinicians who participated in four 1-hour PDT sessions were included in this mixed-methods study. Training consisted of informative, reflective, and simulation experiences to enhance self-awareness, teambuilding, cultural knowledge, and in support of trip preparations.  Training session debriefings were transcribed and coded. The Cross-Cultural Adaptability Inventory (CCAITM) was administered pre-training and post-experience.

Results:  Qualitative data showed emerging themes around collaboration, mentorship, empowerment, opportunity, preparedness, self-awareness, and confidence  Quantitative analysis of CCAI TM data revealed significant median differences between a) all participant’s CCAI™ scores for perceptual acuity pre = 49.29 and post =51.38 (p =.018); as well as b) students CCAI™ scores of perceptual acuity pre=49.80, post =51.46 (p=.040); and c) clinicians CCAI™ personal autonomy scores pre=31.00 and post= 33.16 (p =.042). 

Discussion: Participants demonstrated improved ability to perceive the needs of this novel culturally novel community and respond appropriately to community members and across healthcare disciplines.

Conclusion: Pre-departure training prepares healthcare providers for international service, enhances emotional intelligence, improves interprofessional collaboration, and promotes more continuously sustainable services.

Author Biographies

Suzanne Fox Trotter, University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

SF Trotter is an assistant professor, Doctor of Physical Therapy program, University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, Austin, TX.

Sharon Dunnivan-Mitchell, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences

S Dunnivan-Mitchell is an instructor, Doctor of Physical Therapy program, University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, Austin, TX

Sharon Dunnivan-Mitchell, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences

S Dunnivan-Mitchell is an instructor, Doctor of Physical Therapy program, University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, Austin, TX

Nicole Borman, University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

N Borman is an adjunct faculty member, Doctor of Physical Therapy program, University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, Austin, TX.

Nicole Borman, University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

N Borman is an adjunct faculty member, Doctor of Physical Therapy program, University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, Austin, TX.

Aimee Kent, University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

A Kent is an adjunct faculty member, Doctor of Physical Therapy program, University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, Austin, TX.

Aimee Kent, University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

A Kent is an adjunct faculty member, Doctor of Physical Therapy program, University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, Austin, TX.

Brianna Oliva, Results Physical Therapy

B Oliva is a clinic director at Results Physical Therapy in Kyle, TX.

Brianna Oliva, Results Physical Therapy

B Oliva is a clinic director at Results Physical Therapy in Kyle, TX.

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Published

2021-04-26

Issue

Vol. 12 (2021): JSLHE (Winter 2021)

Section

Articles

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