Online interprofessional education related to chronic illness for health professionals: a scoping review

This scoping review focuses on identifying the quantity and quality of research evidence available with

regard to online interprofessional education related to chronic disease management. Recent advances

have seen the emergence of information communication technology and digital health solutions that

may improve monitoring of and self-management of chronic disease. With the growing chronic disease

burden globally, and the advancement of information communication technology, digital health solutions may improve chronic disease monitoring and self-management. However, health professionals are

slow to utilize this technology in chronic disease management. Online education has the potential to

enhance utilization of digital health solutions across interprofessional healthcare teams. This scoping

review focuses on online interprofessional education and eLearning strategies used to promote engagement and achievement of learning outcomes between health care professionals in chronic disease

management. A systematic search of the literature yielded 3112 papers; 15 studies were included in the

review following an independent screening process. The review found very limited research for online

interprofessional education related to chronic disease so it is not feasible to comment or draw conclusions in relation to its impact on interprofessional learning, student engagement in education or its

impact in practice, services or health outcomes. Research methodology and online eLearning strategies

varied across studies, highlighting the need for further rigorous studies that include consistency in

online interprofessional education strategies, evaluations and study methods.