For more information, contact Abena Foreman-Trice at 434-243-2734.

August 11, 2004

UNIQUE CLASS TO HELP UVa MEDICAL STUDENTS CONNECT SCIENCE WITH THE HUMAN SIDE OF HEALTH CARE
The first two years of a medical student’s curriculum typically include courses like gross anatomy, biochemistry, pathology and behavioral science. A new class at the University of Virginia School of Medicine – believed to be the first of its kind in an American medical school – will offer students a way to understand the link between their science-based courses and real-world patient care experiences. The three-day introductory course for all first year medical students, “Cells to Society,” begins Wednesday, August 18 and lasts through Friday, August 20.

“One of the unique aspects of this course is its emphasis on using medical encounters to stimulate the students into asking both basic and clinical questions,” says Dr. Arthur Garson, vice president and dean of the U.Va. medical school and one of the creators of the course. “We want students to see the big picture first – putting basic science in the context of the patient.”

Sessions will include:

  • Lectures – students will hear about the epidemiology and history of certain diseases.
  • Resource Fair – students will attend hands-on medical workshops. 
  • Field trips – students will be able to observe in labs and some hospital units.
  • Expert panel – students will hear from medical experts who will discuss challenging issues from their fields.
  • Role Play-students will present a creative report on their learning objectives using poetry, drama or illustrations.

Students will observe a patient interview conducted by a faculty member, then immediately following have an opportunity to conduct a patient interview themselves. Two patients, both of whom are diabetic, have agreed to participate. Students also get to create as well as research their own learning objectives, allowing them to mastermind their own learning experience. Sessions begin at 8:30 a.m. and last until 5 p.m. each day.

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