Iterative Design and Mixed Methods Approach to Developing a Multi-Spectrum of Care Education Model

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Education
• Clinical Decision-Making
• Spectrum of Care Framework

Background:

• Veterinary students need to master complex factors influencing clinical decisions.
• The Spectrum of Care (SOC) framework is gaining traction in veterinary education.
• Practical tools for teaching and applying SOC principles are limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development and refinement of the Multi-Spectrum of Care (MSOC) educational model.
• To enhance veterinary students' understanding and application of SOC principles.
• To evaluate the MSOC model's effectiveness in clinical rotations.

Main Methods:

• Mixed methods approach including student surveys and thematic analysis.
• Iterative refinement of the MSOC model based on student feedback across three deployment phases.
• Integration of the MSOC model into clinical rotations at Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine.

Main Results:

• The MSOC model increased student awareness of non-cost contextual factors influencing care.
• The model improved veterinary students' critical thinking and ability to develop multiple care pathways.
• Students reported enhanced clinical reasoning structure and deeper understanding of SOC principles.

Conclusions:

• The MSOC model is a promising, flexible educational tool for operationalizing SOC education in veterinary medicine.
• The model prepares students for the realities of contemporary veterinary practice by emphasizing comprehensive contextual consideration.
• Further refinement and broader testing are warranted for wider implementation across diverse settings.