Chronological evolution of interprofessional education (IPE) in Saudi Arabia: A systematic review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.46542/pe.2025.251.311321Keywords:
Health professional, Healthcare education, Healthcare student, Interprofessional education (IPE), Saudi ArabiaAbstract
Background: This study aimed to identify the evolution of research conducted over a decade (2013 to 2023) on the facilitators and barriers to interprofessional education (IPE) implementation in healthcare education in Saudi Arabia.
Methods: The PRISMA model for systematic review was adopted to search the MEDLINE, PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar databases. Boolean operators and keywords were used to retrieve relevant research articles, and data were analysed narratively to describe the research findings.
Results: Twelve studies were selected for the systematic review, most of which addressed the knowledge and perception of healthcare students and teachers about IPE, showing improved knowledge and favourable perception of IPE over time. However, several barriers to implementing IPE in Saudi Arabia were also reported. Research has emphasised the need for workshops to improve IPE preparedness and facilitate its integration into curricula.
Conclusion: The knowledge and perceptions of students and teaching faculty towards IPE in KSA have gradually improved. Further studies are recommended to explore the perceptions and readiness of other stakeholders, including curriculum design experts across various healthcare institutes, institutional higher management, clinical site preceptors, and students undergoing clinical training.
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