Family medicine
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Emerging technologies, trainees' proficiency with digital resources, and the COVID-19 pandemic have increased the role of mobile and asynchronous learning methods in medical education. Educational podcasts have gained popularity in both formal curricula and independent learning, but their impact on educational outcomes has not been well studied. ⋯ The podcast demonstrated a reaction-level impact, with users reporting positive attitudes toward the podcast's impact and spending more time studying during pediatrics clerkship. Podcasts have strong potential as a supplement to existing curricula, where they can fill a need for interested learners. Future research should focus on the relationship between time spent and knowledge gain or utilize alternative measures of knowledge.
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Obstetric care is a core element in family medicine education. New interns typically learn the sterile cervical exam on the job by examining women in labor. This can be uncomfortable for patients and may increase the risk of infection. Simulated training could minimize these challenges, but manufactured models are expensive and not widely available in residency programs. We sought to evaluate a simple, homemade sewn model using stretchy fabric and pipe cleaners that could improve teaching and acquisition of cervical examination skills and common obstetrical procedures. ⋯ We developed a simple, low-cost cervical exam model that was shown to be well-regarded by trainees and could be duplicated by other residency programs. This approach provides a unique and accessible way to offer hands-on simulation during obstetrical training. The model may improve trainees' understanding of the procedures which would lead to better experiences for obstetrical patients.
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Background and Objectives: Despite the significant effects of homelessness on health, medical and health professions students rarely receive formal education in caring for individuals experiencing homelessness. We describe the implementation and evaluation of a novel student-run Patient Navigator Program (PNP) and its prerequisite elective that trains students in patient navigation principles specific to homelessness in the local community. ⋯ Formal education in patient navigation and caring for individuals experiencing homelessness improves self-assessed preparedness of future health care providers in serving homeless and underserved populations.
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Physician location is an important element of health care access. However, physician shortages and disparities in geographic distribution exist. This study examines physician locations, relocation patterns, and factors associated with relocating. ⋯ Primary care status and rurality are important factors consider to understand physician relocation patterns. We found that a substantial number of Arizona physicians relocated within Arizona between 2014 and 2019, and few of those who relocated (2%) moved to a more rural area.