Submission ID 119751
| Code | OB-4-2 |
|---|---|
| Type | Oral |
| Abstract Title | 'Beyond the Syllabus': A Discourse Analysis of the Representation of Family Medicine in Undergraduate Medical Education Curricular Materials |
| Will the presenter be a: | Graduate Student |
| Methods | We conducted a discourse analysis of all formal UGME curriculum documents, including strategic plans, mission statements, learning objectives, tutorial case problems, and elective content. We also analyzed the clinical professions of instructors and the broader relative program structure. Our approach was guided by core FM principles of comprehensiveness, prevention, relational care, and longitudinal care. Each document was reviewed by at least two independent researchers, with regular team discussions to ensure analytic rigour and consistency. |
| Results | Strategic documents affirm the value of FM, but this is reflected inconsistently within curricular components. Medical Foundations curriculum emphasizes hospital-based, disease-oriented care, while Professional Competencies foregrounds person-centred approaches. Tutorial cases often position emergency physicians as central problem-solvers, with FM roles limited to referral or diagnostic functions. FM's broader scope in managing complexity, coordinating care, and innovating in resource-limited settings is rarely depicted. Educators come from diverse backgrounds, but FM educators typically represent focused rather than comprehensive practice. |
| Discussion | Limited integration of FM across curricular content, educator roles, and tutorial case design may contribute to a fragmented understanding of its importance. A more explicit focus on FM principles will help future physicians recognize its essential role in an actively interdependent healthcare system. |
| Abstract Track - First Choice | Curriculum |
| Curriculum | General |
| Learning Outcomes | Communication Skills General Professionalism/Ethics Teaching |
| Authors | Aimun Q. Shah Nicole Fu Helen Neighbour Mathew Sibbald Sharon Bal Sarah Kinzie Cathy Risdon Meredith Vanstone Stacey A. Ritz Lawrence Grierson Keyna Bracken |
