Phase 1 Courses

This block is intended to provide students with a foundation in anatomy, basic tissue histology, embryology, and medical imaging necessary for success in the remainder of the curriculum and introduce applications of anatomy and histology to the practice of medicine. The course covers concepts of microscopic, gross and developmental anatomy presented in a clinical context. The cadaver-based experience in AHE will involve team-based dissection activities that provides the setting for students for the development of a professional attitude toward patients, colleagues, and the entire health care community.

This block will integrate the basic principles of biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, pharmacology, pathology, and microbiology to prepare students for subsequent organ-system based blocks. Specifically, this block begins with a description of various pathways involved in human metabolism, organization of the human genome, control of gene expression and major cellular organelles and their functions. Basic principles of pharmacology including pharmacodynamics/kinetics and key pathology concepts, such as inflammation, are then introduced. This is followed by an overview of selected medically important microorganisms, their life cycles, identification, and the mechanisms through which they cause disease. Lastly, mechanisms of action and basic pharmacological properties of antimicrobial drugs are addressed.

This block introduces immune, hematopoietic and cardiovascular systems. The physiology and histology of components of the immune system will provide the basis for disorders of immunity. The hematopoietic section will address various blood disorders including anemias, bleeding and clotting disorders, cancers, and their treatment. The cardiovascular section will cover the autonomic nervous system and excitable tissues and proceed from histology and physiology to the pathology, diagnosis and pharmacotherapy of cardiac and vascular diseases.

This block covers the histology and physiology of the renal and respiratory systems, the respective major pathologies, diagnoses, and treatments related to each system, as well the integrative function of the renal and respiratory systems within context of acid-base balance and related pathologies.

This block extends throughout year 1, and provides a framework for students to gain skills essential to professional identify formation as physicians, including professionalism, cultural competency, teamwork and collaboration, and addressing ethical challenges to medical practice. Students are also introduced to health systems and health policy, and social and cultural issues that impact health. Learning occurs in classroom settings, small group forums, and community-based settings. The students also explore ethical, cultural, psychological and economic dimensions of clinical care in a variety of learning settings.

Throughout year 1, students will learn to conduct a thorough medical history and physical examination of the Head/Neck, Eyes, Ears, Nose, Throat (HEENT), Cardiovascular, and Respiratory systems. Beginning with the complete medical history, students will gain knowledge and skills in patient centered communication. Students will also learn to document and present patient encounters in a SOAP format. Content will be delivered in various styles, including large group didactic sessions, workshops with peers and standardized patients, and clinical examinations. Student will show mastery of skills throughout these mandatory sessions and may have the opportunity for showing increased clinical acumen through optional sessions.

The gastrointestinal section will cover the function, pathology, pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of the oropharynx, digestive tract, liver and pancreas. Students will also be introduced to common digestive tract pathogens. The second section will cover the physiology and pathophysiological conditions of skin, connective tissue and the musculoskeletal system.

This block begins with comprehensive coverage of the central nervous system, which integrates microscopic cellular structure, neuroanatomy, and neurological systems with both normal function and clinical signs and symptoms. The block subsequently introduces the student to aspects of neuropharmacology, neuropathology, and the etiology (biological and psychosocial factors), signs, and symptoms of various neuropsychiatric disorders. The reproductive section will cover the histology, physiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of reproductive organ and cancer biology.

The organ systems 5 block will provide instruction in basic and clinical endocrinology, covering endocrine histology, physiology and pathophysiology. Additionally, topics covered in previous organ systems (OS 1-4) may be briefly revisited. Selected diseases pertaining to multiple organ systems will also be introduced facilitating the integration and interconnections of several organ systems. Collectively, this block will help students to integrate their knowledge to analyze clinical problems and formulate differential diagnoses.

This is an independent study course designed to aid students in preparing for the taking USMLE Step 1.

This block builds on the skills learned in P3-1 with more advanced clinical reasoning, evidence-based medicine, patient safety and career development skills. They continue to explore professionalism and ethics and develop awareness of cultural and psychosocial issues using a variety of methods: workshops, small group activities, personal reflection and community-based settings.

Building on the skills and knowledge from ICM1, students will learn to conduct a thorough medical history and physical examination of the Gastrointestinal, Musculoskeletal, Neurological, Psychiatric, and Reproductive systems. Students will continue with patient centered communication skills, adding in more difficult skills such as end-of-life discussions. Students will continue to develop documentation and patient presentation skills. Content will be delivered in various styles, including large group didactic sessions, workshops with peers and standardized patients, and clinical examinations. Student will show mastery of skills throughout these mandatory sessions and may have the opportunity for showing increased clinical acumen through optional sessions.