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Complementary medicine: the Southampton undergraduate experience
1School of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.
Complementary Therapies in Medicine
|November 9, 2000
Summary
This study details a successful complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) module for diverse health students. The program is effective and engaging, but faces funding challenges for long-term sustainability.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)
- Interprofessional Learning
Background:
- Developing interprofessional education (IPE) modules is crucial for modern healthcare training.
- Familiarization with Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) is increasingly important for healthcare professionals.
- Integrating diverse student groups (medical, nursing, chiropractic) presents unique educational challenges and opportunities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the development and experiences of a novel CAM familiarization special study module.
- To evaluate the effectiveness and engagement of the module for students and educators.
- To establish clear educational objectives through consensus among students and teachers.
Main Methods:
- A multidisciplinary approach involving medical students, nurses, and chiropractors.
- Collaborative development of curriculum and educational objectives.
- Iterative refinement based on four academic years of implementation.
Main Results:
- The developed module was perceived as an effective, interesting, and exciting educational experience.
- Clear educational objectives were successfully defined through consensus.
- The module has been sustained for four academic years.
Conclusions:
- The interprofessional CAM module is a viable and engaging educational model.
- Achieving consensus on educational objectives is key to module success.
- Long-term sustainability, particularly funding, remains a significant concern for the module's future.