Early signs of success for the Riverland Interprofessional Student Placement Program (RISPP)

In 2023, the Riverland Murray Coorong Local Health Network, in conjunction with Flinders University Rural and Remote Health SA, secured federal funding to create new work-integrated learning placements for Allied Health students in the local area, and at the same time enhance cultural learning opportunities and provide healthcare services to consumers who previously lacked access. The clinic operates out of the Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing Centre in Barmera, providing Physiotherapy, Speech Pathology and Occupational Therapy services in community.
Utilising a student-led clinic model, Allied Health students, with the support of a Senior Clinical educator, manage clinical prioritisation, intervention and organisation of administrative tasks. The project prioritises interdisciplinary client interventions, aiming to enhance the critical thinking and problem-solving skills of students while providing a comprehensive and coordinated approach to healthcare within the Aboriginal Health setting.
This innovative model has enabled a chronically understaffed Allied Health team to deliver an enriched and positive learning experience, leading to successful recruitment to new graduate within the region. Additionally, culturally-safe, holistic care services are being provided to Aboriginal children across the region, ensuring timely care at the Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing centre that might otherwise be inaccessible.
This presentation unpacks how the RISPP model works and points to early signs of success, from the perspectives of both the Senior Clinical Educator and the students.