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A curriculum in systems-based care: experiential learning changes in student knowledge and attitudes.
Mark T O'Connell1, Marc L Rivo, Alex J Mechaber
1Department of Medicine, University of Miami, FL 33140, USA.
Family Medicine
|February 13, 2004
Summary
Medical students showed improved attitudes toward managed care organizations after a hands-on educational program. This systems-based care training enhanced their understanding of healthcare delivery and MCO functions.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Health Services Research
- Managed Care
Background:
- Physicians require understanding of healthcare systems for efficient patient care.
- The UME-21 initiative developed a program to prepare medical students for emerging care systems.
- University of Miami partnered with AvMed Health Plans for this educational program.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of a longitudinal educational program on medical students' attitudes and knowledge regarding systems-based care and managed care organizations (MCOs).
Main Methods:
- A 4-year undergraduate curriculum incorporating didactic sessions and practical experiences.
- Third-year students participated in a day-long visit to AvMed Health Plans, including presentations and tours.
- Attitudinal surveys were administered at multiple points, alongside knowledge assessments.
Main Results:
- No significant attitude changes were observed before the MCO visit, but the visit positively impacted attitudes toward systems of care and MCOs.
- Students demonstrated strong performance on post-evaluation knowledge assessments.
- Replication at another medical school yielded similar positive effects on student attitudes.
Conclusions:
- Medical students initially hold neutral-to-negative views on systems of care and MCOs.
- Traditional educational methods have minimal impact on these opinions.
- Experiential learning at an MCO's administrative offices, coupled with dialogue, positively shifts student perceptions and enhances knowledge of systems-based practice.