Interdisciplinary Health Professional Education in the Rural United States

Abstract

The New Mexico Rural Health Interdisciplinary Program (RHIP) was developed to provide interdisciplinary educational experiences to health professional students. The RHIP also has the goal of increasing the recruitment and retention of health professionals in underserved, rural communities in New Mexico. Occupational Therapy is a core discipline in the program. This article describes the multidimensional nature of the RHIP and the involvement of occupational therapy students and faculty. Important considerations for successful program development are explored, and benefits of occupational therapy involvement in interdisciplinary educational activities are discussed. Program relevance to international settings is also described.