A novel interdisciplinary curriculum has been successfully implemented in Internal Medicine residency programs to enhance education in women's health, gender-affirming care, and health disparities. Led by Janet Henrich, MD, and created by a collaborative team of faculty from various disciplines, including Internal Medicine; Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences; and Surgery; as well as community experts, this curriculum comprises half-day modules on interrelated topics, emphasizing health equity and interactive learning.
Implemented since 2015 for about 175 residents annually, the curriculum's impact was evaluated through anonymous surveys. The 2022-2023 data showed that 90% of the 131 resident respondents felt adequately prepared to apply the skills learned. A consistent trend of increased comfort with the material was observed across previous years. The curriculum was particularly commended for its interactive teaching methods and direct learning experiences from community members and peers.
This innovative educational approach has proven effective in increasing resident learning and readiness. The team hopes this success can be replicated for other medical training programs, addressing vital issues in women's and gender-affirming care education, and fostering an equitable healthcare environment.
To learn more, read “It Takes a Village: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Preparing Internal Medicine Residents to Care for Patients at the Intersection of Women's Health, Gender-Affirming Care, and Health Disparities” in the Journal of Women’s Health.
Henrich JB, Richman I, Rabin TL, Gielissen KA, Dhond M, Canarie JX, Hirschman AF, Windham MR, Maya S, McNamara C, Pathy S, Bernstein P, Smith R, Vasquez L. It Takes a Village: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Preparing Internal Medicine Residents to Care for Patients at the Intersection of Women's Health, Gender-Affirming Care, and Health Disparities. J Womens Health (Larchmt). 2024 Feb;33(2):152-162. doi: 10.1089/jwh.2023.0217. Epub 2024 Jan 8. PMID: 38190490.