The Prologue:  launching the Medical and pharmacy curriculum

Laurie E. Zupp*, Loree G. Allen*, Ellen J. Wagner*, Northeastern Ohio Universities Colleges of Medicine and Pharmacy, Rootstown, OH 44272 U.S.A.

Purpose

In 2005, our institution began the academic year with a three-week Prologue that launched the students’ journey of becoming a physician. Prologue goals (COPE) are to:  1) Commence medical education, 2) Orient students to medical school/medical care, 3) Prepare students for academic/career success, and 4) Engage students in the process of becoming a physician.  This abstract describes the Prologue, its outcomes and future plans.

Methods

The Prologue has been offered for two years. Each year, twelve class sessions were offered around themes including:  physician identity, career development, strategies for academic success, professionalism, patient care, population health, clinical skills training and service to society. Faculty participants included clinicians; community health, behavioral and basic science faculty; a learning specialist; and Student Services/Health Professions Education specialists. Evaluative methods included clinical skills assessments, a reflective essay and a written exam. Pass/fail grades were awarded.

Results

All 246 first-year medical students received a passing score. Course feedback was very favorable. Student feedback indicated an appreciation for a gradual introduction to medical school and early introduction to clinical skills training.  

Conclusions/Future Directions

In 2007, the course will take a new direction to focus on an innovative collaborative approach to patient-centered care by integrating existing medical curriculum with our new pharmacy curriculum. Anticipated results are improved interdisciplinary communication, enhanced levels of understanding among healthcare teams and recognition of similarities/differences among medical/pharmacy professionals. Existing Prologue activities are being refined to incorporate pharmacy principles. Medical and pharmacy faculty will co-teach sessions to present both perspectives of each discipline.