Ms Pamela D'Netto1, Ms Marica Lear1, Ms Tamisn Mahoney1, Ms Clare Pekin1
1Surgical Treatment and Rehabilitation Service, Herston, Australia
Biography:
Pamela is a speech pathologist and researcher, who holds the position of Allied Health Educator at the Surgical Treatment and Rehabilitation Service (STARS). This interdisciplinary position is part of the Workforce Development Team and supports health professionals and allied health assistants (AHA) from nine disciplines employed at STARS. Together with the interprofessional Education Team, Pamela is responsible for the identification, development, implementation, and review of clinical and non-clinical training initiative for all Allied Health staff. She is a current member of the STARS AHA Working Committee which was responsible for the conception of the AHA Professional Development Program.
Abstract:
Scope/ Background:
The current literature emphasises the need for consistency of training and education for allied health assistants (AHAs) including training in work environments. However, many AHAs have limited access to education opportunities and professional development.
Purpose and Method:
An interdisciplinary AHA continuing professional development program was developed at the Surgical Treatment and Rehabilitation Service (STARS) encompassing a monthly (one topic presented twice) in-service involving practical demonstration, delivered during protected work time for education. AHAs and health professionals were asked to provide suggestions for topics. The program was evaluated via a 7-item self-reported measure of satisfaction completed after each inservice, and a focus group like session at 12 months where qualitative feedback was sought for future improvements.
Results:
In the first year single discipline AHAs from 4 allied health disciplines and interprofessional AHAs attended the program. Forty-one AHAs (total 68) completed the satisfaction measure and reported an overall high satisfaction score (4.9 ± 0.4). The majority (75%) agreed or strongly agreed that the program improved AHA relevant knowledge, provided relevant topics and was delivered in a suitable location. AHAs suggested improvements including longer sessions to allow for theory and practical elements, a focus on practical demonstrations, and flexible session times to suit the varied rostering schedules across the disciplines.
Conclusion:
This program has provided insight into dedicated, interdisciplinary, education programs for AHAs. Future versions of the STARS AHA professional development program will incorporate requests for improvement from the participants.