Introducing preclinical students to primary care through a community preceptorship program

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Primary Care Training
• Preclinical Medical Studies

Background:

• The Morehouse School of Medicine initiated a preceptorship program in the 1980-81 academic year.
• The program aimed to introduce preclinical medical students to primary care settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the objectives and operational structure of the Morehouse School of Medicine's preceptorship program.
• To evaluate the initial impact of the program on first- and second-year medical students.

Main Methods:

• The program is a required, continuous, two-year curriculum for all preclinical students.
• It includes exposure to various primary care specialties, settings, and practice models.
• Students follow a family for one to two years to provide continuity of care.

Main Results:

• Preliminary evaluation of the program's first year indicates a significant impact.
• The program influenced students' attitudes towards primary care.
• It also affected students' knowledge base and future career plans.

Conclusions:

• The Morehouse School of Medicine's preceptorship program effectively introduces preclinical students to primary care.
• The program's unique structure, including continuity and diverse exposure, shows a positive initial impact.
• Further evaluation is warranted to assess long-term effects on physician specialty choices.