Gastroenterology

Module Description

This organ system-based module offers an in-depth understanding of the gastrointestinal (GI) system's anatomy, physiology, and the wide array of disorders affecting it. Students will delve into the diagnosis, treatment, and management of common and complex GI diseases, such as peptic ulcer disease, inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and hepatobiliary disorders. Emphasizing a holistic approach, the module aims to equip students with the necessary skills to evaluate and manage GI conditions effectively, integrating nutritional management, pharmacotherapy, and endoscopic techniques, while also considering the psychosocial and societal aspects of chronic GI illnesses.

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Module Goals

• To deepen understanding of the GI system's structure and function, including its integral role in overall health.

• To enhance clinical competencies in diagnosing and managing GI diseases, emphasizing evidence-based practices.

• To foster the integration of pathophysiological principles into clinical decision-making and patient care in gastroenterology.

• To cultivate communication and empathy towards patients with GI disorders, promoting patient education and adherence to treatment plans.

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Module Learning Objectives

By the end of this module, students will:

Module Learning Objective	Medical Education Program Objective
Identify and describe the anatomical and histological features of the GI system and its accessory organs and relate these structures to their physiological functions	Knowledge for Practice 8. Apply knowledge of the biomedical sciences to care for patients.
Explain the physiological mechanisms that underlie gastrointestinal function and motility, including the mechanical and chemical activities of the digestive tract	Knowledge for Practice 8. Apply knowledge of the biomedical sciences to care for patients.
Explain the pathophysiological mechanisms behind common GI disorders, considering the roles of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.	Knowledge for Practice 9. Apply established and emerging principles of clinical sciences to diagnostic and therapeutic decision-making, clinical problem-solving, and other aspects of evidence-based health care. 11. Apply principles of social-behavioral sciences to the delivery of healthcare.
Assess and interpret clinical presentations, in the context of laboratory findings, radiographic and endoscopic imaging studies, to accurately diagnose GI diseases.	Patient Care 2. Interpret laboratory data, imaging studies, and other tests required for the area of practice. 3. Make informed decisions about diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.
Outline management plans for GI disorders, which include dietary modifications, pharmacological treatments, and surgical options, with an awareness of how these treatments relate to the pathophysiology of GI diseases.	Patient Care 3. Make informed decisions about diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.
Analyze clinical case scenarios to apply evidence-based principles, focusing specifically on understanding treatment variations and outcomes across different demographic groups.	Patient Care 3. Make informed decisions about diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. Practice-Based Learning and Improvement 13. Locate, appraise, and assimilate evidence from scientific studies related to patients' health problems.
Explore healthcare disparities in GI health to understand the impact of socio-economic, racial, and ethnic factors on patient outcomes and discuss potential approaches to promote health equity.	Knowledge for Practice 10. Apply principles of public and population health to the identification of health problems, risk factors, treatment strategies, resources, and disease prevention/health promotion efforts for patients and populations. Systems-Based Practice 23. Demonstrate approaches to addressing structural factors that may impact healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.