Core curriculum in pathology for future Irish medical students

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Pathology Training
• Curriculum Development

Background:

• Medical school curricula are increasingly integrated, risking exclusion of core pathology components.
• The Faculty of Pathology surveyed current pathology teaching delivery in Ireland.
• Key principles from the Irish Medical Council, including professionalism, guide curriculum development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop suggested components for a core pathology curriculum for medical students in Ireland.
• To align pathology education with the Medical Council's requirements for professionalism and clinical competencies.
• To propose effective teaching and assessment methods for pathology.

Main Methods:

• Survey of current pathology teaching in Ireland.
• Development of core curriculum components based on identified needs and principles.
• Analysis of teaching and assessment methods, including adaptations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Main Results:

• A core pathology curriculum framework has been proposed, covering key sub-disciplines like histopathology, microbiology, hematology, chemical pathology, and immunology.
• Emphasis is placed on the pathologist's role in patient care and professional values.
• Recommendations include integrated, multi-disciplinary teaching and reduced reliance on traditional lectures.

Conclusions:

• A structured core pathology curriculum is essential for medical graduates.
• Integrated teaching models are recommended to mirror professional practice.
• Adapting teaching and assessment methods, informed by recent experiences, is crucial for effective pathology education.