Creation and Implementation of Virtual Urogynecology Patient Cases for Medical Student Education

Urogynecologic disorders are highly prevalent, and many physicians across various specialties will encounter and care for patients with pelvic floor disorders. Yet most medical students have had limited to no experience in diagnosing and managing pelvic floor disorders, resulting in a gap in clinical education.

Three virtual and interactive urogynecologic patient cases were developed on an e-learning platform with an overall goal of increasing clinical exposure to various pelvic floor disorders. The cases were integrated into the medical student obstetrics and gynecology clerkship during the 2020-2021 academic year (n = 40). Participants provided feedback regarding usability, acceptability, and educational value of the cases.

Twenty-one students (52%) completed the survey. Ninety percent (n = 19) agreed or strongly agreed that they were satisfied with the cases, and 71% (n = 15) agreed or strongly agreed that they would recommend the virtual patient cases to other students. All students (n = 21) felt that the format was easy to use and reported that the cases were appropriate for their level of learning. Most students felt that the cases increased or significantly increased their confidence regarding nonsurgical and surgical management options for pelvic floor disorders.

Our findings suggest that these interactive virtual patient cases are an acceptable, valuable, and effective tool for learners. Utilizing the cases can help mitigate existing disparities in exposure to pelvic floor disorders both highlighted by and preceding the COVID-19 pandemic.