Their poster detailed the growing interest in employing an interdisciplinary approach to improving healthcare delivery. In January 2015, the Purdue Schools of Industrial Engineering and Nursing began collaborating to establish a chapter of the IHI Open School, which was officially launched in August 2015. The chapter brings together an interdisciplinary group of students to develop knowledge and skills in patient safety, quality improvement methodology, person- and family-centered care, leadership, and cost and value. It also connects students with professional development opportunities and service projects to implement these skills.

The December 6-9 Forum gave students a chance to network with nearly 6,000 health care professionals, to gain actionable ideas for their organizations, and to play a part in effecting real change in health care quality and safety. The IHI Open School is an inter-professional educational community that gives students patient safety and quality improvement skills. It aims to serve the community as a whole through volunteerism and preparation for service as healthcare professionals.

Faculty advisors Sara McComb (IE and Nursing)and Pam Karagory (Nursing) hope to have representatives from every Purdue college involved in the IHI Open School. "Everyone has the power to influence healthcare delivery in some way," says McComb.

Anyone interested in improving the healthcare delivery process may join. For more information, contact faculty advisor Sara McComb (sara@purdue.edu).

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