Exploring Veterinary Students' Perceptions of Teamwork and Learning from an Interprofessional Community-Based Experience.

This article examines veterinary students' perceptions of their interprofessional education (IPE) experience within the University of Florida's Putting Families First (PFF) program, a community-based, service-learning initiative involving multiple health professions. The study found that veterinary students identified key teamwork skills developed through PFF, including adaptability, communication—especially closed-loop communication—and mutual support, which they anticipate applying in their future clinical rotations. Additionally, students gained insight into the social determinants of health affecting clients, enhancing their understanding of how these factors influence veterinary care decisions. The findings highlight the role of IPE in preparing veterinary students for collaborative practice aligned with One Health principles, emphasizing the integration of human, animal, and environmental health. This research supports the inclusion of veterinary students in interprofessional programs to foster competencies essential for effective teamwork and client-centered care in complex health contexts.