Involving Medical Students in the Curriculum Development of Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Medicine: An...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Integrative Medicine
• Healthcare Systems

Background:

• Traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine (TCIM) is increasingly integrated into global healthcare systems and medical education.
• Medical students generally show positive attitudes and interest towards TCIM.
• Student engagement in TCIM curriculum development remains underexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore medical student perspectives on a novel TCIM curriculum.
• To identify key elements for developing TCIM curricula in undergraduate medical education.
• To understand student experiences and expectations regarding TCIM training.

Main Methods:

• An exploratory qualitative descriptive study was conducted.
• Focus group discussions were held with fourth-year medical students.
• The study examined perspectives on a TCIM curriculum at Fribourg University.

Main Results:

• Students emphasized TCIM's essential role for all medical students, not just as an elective.
• A longitudinal and transversal curriculum structure was favored for cross-disciplinary integration.
• A patient-centered, relationship-based approach in TCIM was highlighted as crucial for care.
• Student diversity in attitudes and expectations presents unique teaching and learning considerations.

Conclusions:

• Engaging students in curriculum development is vital for effective TCIM integration.
• Medical students consider TCIM essential, supporting its enhanced inclusion in medical training.
• Strengthening TCIM in medical education prepares future physicians for patient-centered care in complex systems.