This course provides students with the basic clinical skills needed for their third-year clinical clerkships. It is a continuation of the first-year CPM course. 

The fall semester course consists of three interrelated components. In a series of lectures, key concepts are presented related to specialized and more advanced aspects of the physical examination, including the gynecologic, urologic, neurologic, dermatologic, ENT, ophthalmologic, orthopedic, abdominal, pulmonary and cardiovascular examinations. Students are also introduced to the basics of medical ethics, cancer screening and medical record. Students, in groups of four, are assigned to clinical preceptors at area hospitals and clinics to allow for individual experience with the medical interview and physical examination. Small group demonstration sessions allow students to polish their skills in specialized aspects of the physical examination. 

The spring semester course consists of five interrelated components. In a series of clinical case presentations, the emphasis is on clinical problem solving, differential diagnosis and interpretation of clinical, laboratory and radiologic features, including hematological peripheral blood smear interpretations. Students receive training and experience in the assessment of patients with disabilities, related to trauma, illness or advanced age. Students are also exposed to basics of immunizations, healthcare quality, patient safety, physician-patient communication and medico-legal malpractice issues related to clinical practice. They are also introduced to certain basic clinical procedural skills. In addition, the students continue to work with preceptors at clinical sites to practice their clinical skills, under supervision. 

Throughout the two semesters, students are introduced ‘hands-on’ to the basics of geriatric medicine.

At the end of the fall and spring semesters, students must pass a clinical competency exam, which evaluates their ability to perform a medical interview and physical examination and prepare a written record of their findings. This exam is performed utilizing standardized patients. At the conclusion of the course, the students should be able to: (1) communicate effectively with patients; (2) obtain a comprehensive medical history; (3) perform a complete physical examination; (4) prepare a written record of the history and physical examination; and (5) present patients orally in a concise manner. 

Prerequisite: Satisfactory completion of IDM-520/521. 

Fall/spring semesters

Number of students: 180

Required course for second year medical students (MS2)

Course Director: Nasir Khan, MD