Collaborating Across the Globe: The Yale-University of Jordan International Interprofessional Addiction Education Program.

Abstract

Background: Substance use is a major global public health challenge. A well-trained health care workforce is needed to prevent, address, and treat substance use disorders (SUD) internationally.

Methods: In September 2021, the Yale Schools of Medicine (YSM) and Public Health (YSPH) and the University of Jordan (UJ) collaborated to establish the Yale-UJ Joint Training Program in Addiction Medicine. The curriculum was developed using the six-step Kern Model. The program aimed to create opportunities for cross-cultural, interprofessional education in addiction medicine to address education and treatment gaps.

Results: The two-year program led to novel learning, training, and research opportunities in addiction medicine for faculty, staff, and students at YSM, YSPH, and UJ. The program implemented 16 lectures, a live in-person training workshop, three student-led discussion events, a student-led exchange network, a novel elective course, two cross-institutional research projects, and resulted in three published peer reviewed articles, two international conference presentations, three elective training opportunities, and one postdoctoral training. The program was well received by students and faculty and resulted in SUD treatment stakeholder collaboration in both countries.

Conclusions: Establishment of a cross-national, interprofessional joint training program creates opportunities to implement novel education, research, and mentorship to prepare a culturally informed workforce.