Anatomy & Embryology
Provides a broad understanding of the structural organization of the human body at the macroscopic level to provide a foundation for physical examination and functional assessment of the human organism. Integrates embryological development with study of the cadaver and examination of the normal living body. Concentrates on exploration of the thoracic, abdomen, and pelvis and the viscera they contain. There is an emphasis on three-dimensional interrelationships and the general principles of blood and nerve supply rather than detailed anatomy of individual organs. Gross anatomy of skull, pharynx, larynx are presented. Physiological concepts and clinical evaluation related to hearing and balance are covered. Maxillofacial disorders, diseases of nasal passages, nasopharynx, oropharynx and accessory sinuses are introduced. The anatomy of the limbs is presented during the second year. Embryology and general anatomical concepts are presented in lecture format, but most learning takes place in the dissecting laboratory.
Biochemistry
This course covers classical molecular and cellular biochemistry, cellular physiology, and molecular genetics. Metabolic interrelationships as they occur in the individual will be stressed and related to disturbances in disease states.
Introduction to Clinical Medicine
Instruction in communication skills and interview techniques to form the basis for the doctor-patient relationship and the skills of communicating with patients are introduced. The patient profile will be obtained. There will be attention to developing comfort in the physician role.
The medical history will be introduced and instruction in data collection will begin. There will be further experience in conducting medical interviews with patients for the purpose of obtaining the medical history and patient profile. Special problems related to interviewing will be addressed.
The adult screening physical examination will be taught through the use of lectures, audio/visual aids, and small group tutorials where students in supervised settings practice the physical exam on one another.
The continuity requirement and required preceptorship are monitored as part of this course.
Introduction to Immunology
Topics covered include: basic concepts such as antigens; antibodies; complement; B-and T-lymphocyte function, including interactions with each other and with accessory cells; immunological tolerance; major histocompatibility complex and role of these basic concepts in immunopathology (immunodeficiencies, hypersensitivities, autoimmunity, blood transfusion, and transplantation).
Mechanisms in Cell Physiology
Fundamental cellular events underlying the following topics are presented: physiology of the cell membrane including ionic and electrical potential gradients, active transport, excitability and action potentials; biophysics of sensory receptors; neuromuscular transmission; muscle energetics and contractility; spinal reflexes and central synaptic transmission; autonomic nervous system; energy metabolism and temperature regulation; epithelial transport; gastrointestinal motility and secretions.
Medical Information for Decision Making
Introduction to methods for: a) identifying and retrieving high quality, relevant documents for clinical decision making, b) applying rigorous criteria when reading primary research studies, reviews of primary studies, or other medical information sources that report on the effectiveness of therapeutic or preventive interventions.
Microbiology and Infectious Disease
This course introduces the pathogenesis and immunity of infectious diseases, and natural barriers. Microbiology, epidemiology, clinical manifestations and control of representative bacterial, fungal, parasitic and viral infectious diseases are covered. Chemotherapeutics and principles of chemotherapy, sterilization, principles of asepsis, nosocomial and iatrogenic infections are discussed.
Microscopic Anatomy (Histology)
Lectures and laboratories in microscopic anatomy are designed to provide the principles and concepts of histology, to define the morphological characteristics of the cells, tissues, and organs of the human body, and to relate this information to functional processes studied in concurrent and subsequent courses.
Molecular and Cellular Basis of Disease
Patterns of cell and tissue response to injury are introduced. Mechanisms of cell injury, the inflammatory process, immunology, immunopathology, thrombosis, normal and abnormal growth, neoplasia, and clinicopathological correlation are presented.
Nervous System
Integrated approach to the normal structure and function of the nervous system, including the eye. Neuropathological examples are presented as well as clinical manifestations of neurological disease.
Systems of Human Behavior
Selected overview of contributions from behavioral sciences to the clinical practice of primary care physicians. Sensitizes students to the impact of such factors as emotional and physical development, cultural backgrounds, social roles, families, sexual identities, and belief systems upon their effectiveness as physicians. Encourages appreciation of the role of behavioral factors in major management problems faced in medical practice; covers physical and psychological development of the individual from infancy through old age; teaches skills in analyzing behavior, defining behavioral objectives, and designing precise treatment strategies to attain these objectives.