Diane R. Bridges

Diane R. Bridges is an Associate Professor and Assistant Dean for Distance Learning and Curricular Resources at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, affiliated with the College of Health Professions and Department of Health Services Administration. With over 30 years of clinical nursing experience across obstetrics, neonatal, medical-surgical, and orthopedic specialties, she transitioned to academia in 2005 after leadership roles in nursing management and case management.

Her educational background includes:

• BSN from University of Texas at Houston (academic scholarship)
• MSN in Leadership Management from La Roche University (Sigma Theta Tau Scholarship)
• PhD in Interprofessional Healthcare Studies from Rosalind Franklin University

Dr. Bridges' research centers on Interprofessional Education, where she designs curricula fostering collaboration among healthcare students. Her work in Online Education develops digital platforms for interprofessional learning, while Service Learning initiatives connect students with community health projects. She also investigates Social Determinants of Health impacts on obesity and nutrition, integrating clinical case management expertise into health administration frameworks.

Analysis of her 15 most recent publications (2014-2019) reveals a dominant focus on interprofessional collaboration mechanisms. Key trends include virtual interprofessional experiences for online learners, pharmacist-physician educational partnerships, diabetes care protocols, and accreditation compliance strategies. Her work consistently bridges theoretical frameworks with practical applications in healthcare team development.

As a dedicated educator, Dr. Bridges has mentored students through service learning projects and departmental leadership. She directed the Health Administration program for 9.5 years and co-led the Interprofessional Team and Culture in Healthcare course, overseeing community-based projects for first-year students. Current initiatives focus on developing online certificates and courses through collaboration with Educational Technology and Distance Education units.

Her leadership in the Rosalind Franklin Interprofessional Team drives curriculum innovation, particularly through the Service Learning community projects and online graduate orientation courses. Current efforts prioritize scalable distance learning models that maintain interprofessional engagement in virtual environments.