Falls Awareness Activity Receives National Honor for IPE Excellence

The interprofessional event on the Worcester campus was recognized for enhancing health outcomes and promoting community engagement.

The interprofessional falls awareness event at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) is one of five projects recognized for the 2025 Interprofessional Education Collaborative (IPEC) Excellence in Interprofessional Education Collaboration Award. The activity received honorable mention in the Community Empowerment and Education category.

“We commend this year’s awardees for their inspiring dedication to advancing interprofessional education and teamwork,” said Dr. Alison Whelan, IPEC Board Chair, in a press release. “Their efforts show how working together across professions can make a real difference in addressing health needs and strengthening the health workforce.”

Last October, three programs invited older adults from the Worcester area to the MCPHS campus to learn strategies for preventing falls. Students from the Doctor of Optometry, Doctor of Pharmacy, and Doctor of Physical Therapy programs presented ways the residents can decrease their risk of experiencing a fall and suffering a serious injury, focusing on visual, mobility, and medication concerns.

“This outreach provides community members of all ages with high-quality, low-cost healthcare and helps our students become excellent providers through hands-on experience with patients,” said Dr. Jessica Rydingsward, an Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy.

This was the fifth iteration of the falls awareness activity, but the first time it was held on campus. The Center for Interprofessional Practice and Education sponsored the event.