CHCS - Perspectives - Summer/Fall 2014

PERSPECTIVES • SUMMER–FALL 2014 12 The College of Health Care Sciences (CHCS) is committed to preparing emerg- ing health care professionals to be success- ful practitioners. One of NSU’s eight core values is innovation, and the college is strategically and collaboratively focused on developing innovative methods and oppor- tunities to serve our students, the health care system, and our surrounding commu- nity. Dr. Stanley Wilson, in his dean’s mes- sage at the beginning of the magazine, expressed the passion and dedication he holds for his vision for the College of Health Care Sciences to be a leader in in- novative health care education. During the 2012-13 academic year, the dean created a large committee to address key areas of education and practice. In an effort to ensure best practices within the college, sub-taskforce groups were further developed from the large committee in the areas of simulation, standardized patients, hybrid education, interprofessional educa- tion, and clinical education. Each sub- taskforce group was directed to review the evidence-based literature, evaluate the cur- rent status within our college, and make recommendations for future directions in the respective areas. The collaborative research culminated in a series of workshops to share the re- sults with faculty members throughout the college representing professions that span the health care profession such as • Anesthesiologist Assistant • Audiology • Cardiovascular Sonography • Health Sciences • Medical Sonography • Occupational Therapy • Physical Therapy • Physician Assistant • Respiratory Therapy These seminars served as opportunities for sharing information and engaging in interesting interprofessional discussions that are expected to lead to infusion of best practices into the college’s curricular and clinical experiences. Based on faculty feedback regarding the value of these workshops, the Best Prac- tices Series will continue with other topics. During the 2014-15 academic year, each sub-taskforce group will continue to work hard to improve the various areas of edu- cation and practice. Adrienne Lauer, Ed.D., assistant professor of occupational therapy, Sandee Dunbar, D.P.A., OTR/L, FAOTA , assistant dean of professional de- velopment, Robin Galley, D.P.T., assistant professor and physical therapy clinical di- rector, and Melissa Coffman, Ed.D., de- partment chair and physician assistant program director, have formed a best practices leadership team to explore the integration of the best practices areas, as well as ensure continued progress within the groups. We are proud of the innovative insights the faculty teams have brought forward, and the team will continue to expand upon and apply best practices to offer an excellent, competency-based learning en- vironment that prepares emerging profes- sionals to meet the needs of our increasingly complex and ever-changing health care system. Following is a brief overview of the work each of the taskforces has done thus far. Some of the teams focused more on the SWOT analysis and research, while others placed more emphasis on the next steps and future opportunities. The articles will provide a glimpse into the college’s dedication to becoming leaders in prepar- ing the next generation of health care pro- fessionals. We look forward to the exciting and innovative work that will continue to strengthen the impact we have on our stu- dents, faculty members, and the health care profession. College of Health Care Sciences Best Practices Initiative