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Objectives for Graduation

1. Listing important learning issues in the biological, clinical, populational, and behavioral domains and meeting these learning needs through self-directed study.
2. Searching for and retrieving (from electronic databases and other resources) biomedical information, critically appraising this information, and applying it appropriately to patients and populations.
3. Evaluating the knowledge base supporting good patient care, recognizing gaps between prevailing and best practice, and incorporating the principles of quality improvement to enhance patient care outcomes including patient safety.
4. Evaluating their fund of knowledge, clinical skills, communication skills, and professionalism and responding proactively to meet learning needs.

1. Stating the scientific basis for disease and the role of translational research.
2. Explaining the principles of genetic transmission, the molecular biology of the human genome, the integration of genetics in clinical practice and the molecular, cellular, and biochemical mechanisms that maintain the body’s homeostasis.
3. Describing the normal structure and function of each major organ system and the human body as an intact organism.
4. Explaining the various causes (genetic, developmental, metabolic, toxic, microbiologic, autoimmune, neoplastic, degenerative, and traumatic) of illness and the way in which they operate on the body (pathogenesis).
5. Explaining the altered structure and function (pathology and pathophysiology) of the body and its major organ systems that are seen in various diseases and conditions.
6. Applying new findings in the biological sciences to diagnosis and therapy.

1. Approaching each patient with an awareness and sensitivity to the impact their age, gender, culture, spiritual beliefs, socioeconomic background, family support, sexuality, and healthcare beliefs may have on the development, diagnosis, and treatment of their illness.
2. Applying clinical reasoning, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
3. Performing a complete or organ-specific history and physical exam following an appropriate exam sequence and utilizing correct technique in a manner that reflects a clear understanding of the manifestations of common maladies.
4. Respecting issues of modesty and personal space when interviewing a patient or performing a physical exam.
5. Ordering appropriate diagnostic tests with careful consideration of the test properties, risks and complications, discomfort to patients, cost, and the patient’s overall therapeutic goals.
6. Performing routine procedural skills under appropriate supervision, with minimal discomfort to patients.
7. Developing and implementing an appropriate therapeutic plan that take into account efficacy, adverse effects, cost, and compliance issues, in the context of the patient’s overall goals, values, and cultural beliefs.
8. Recognizing and initiating therapy for acute life-threatening conditions.
9. Educating patients, families, and other healthcare providers about health, illness, and the prevention of disease.
10. Providing end-of-life care including pain management and guidance to patients and their families on end-of-life care decision-making.

1. Greeting patients warmly, eliciting relevant information, understanding the patient’s perspective, responding to their feelings, educating them about their condition, and explaining further management.
2. Utilizing rapport-building techniques, including open-ended questions, empathic listening, checking for understanding, validation, and appropriate eye contact, body language, and voice quality to attend to patients.
3. Communicating with patients and family in a manner that conveys compassion and sensitivity to their feelings and concerns.
4. Incorporating patient-centered and shared decision-making principles into their practice.
5. Motivating patients to adopt new or different behaviors to promote their health.
6. Orally presenting cases clearly and concisely.
7. Writing legible, comprehensive progress notes, history and physical exams, and prescriptions.
8. Providing constructive, meaningful feedback to colleagues.

1. Stating the epidemiology of common illnesses within diverse populations and the systematic approaches useful in reducing the incidence and prevalence of such illnesses.
2. Stating the important non-biological determinants of poor health and the economic, psychological, social, and cultural factors that contribute to the development and/or continuation of illness.
3. Explaining the physician’s role in current Global Health Issues that include emerging infections and pandemics, bioterrorism, and natural disasters.
4. Stating the important public health measures that support the health of communities.
5. Stating important legal aspects of medicine.
6. Caring for patients who are unable to pay and to advocate for access to health care for members of traditionally underserved populations.
7. Applying common biostatistical tools such as the likelihood ratio, positive and negative predictive values, and the number needed to treat to patient care.

1. Stating the theories and principles that govern ethical decision-making including those related to the major dilemmas in medicine.
2. Showing respect, honesty, integrity, and humility.
3. Presenting a professional appearance and demeanor.
4. Respecting patient confidentiality and preserving patient dignity.
5. Recognizing potential conflicts of interest inherent in various financial and organizational arrangements in the practice of medicine.
6. Dealing with professional mistakes openly and honestly in ways that promote patient trust and self-learning.
7. Acknowledging personal limitations and the need for life-long learning.
8. Completing school and professional requirements in a timely manner.
9. Willingly teaching and supporting others.

1. Stating strategies to maintain personal physical and mental health.
2. Stating healthy coping mechanisms to manage stress and exam anxiety.
3. Stating strategies to maintain personal safety in both academic and clinical environments.
4. Listing resources available for treating depression, substance abuse, and other forms of physician impairment.
5. Recognizing the importance of balancing personal, family, and career goals.