An Evaluation of the Effectiveness of a Medical School Musculoskeletal Curriculum at an Academic Medical Center

Abstract

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders are commonly encountered by physicians and affected an estimated 126.6 million Americans in 2012. Nonetheless, musculoskeletal education has been inadequate in United States medical schools. Objective: To determine the musculoskeletal competency of third-year medical students. Method: A nationally validated cross-sectional, 25-question musculoskeletal competency exam was given to third-year medical students. A survey was given to second- and third-year medical students to assess students’ level of interest in musculoskeletal medicine and obtain their feedback regarding the curriculum. Results: The mean score of the competency exam was 69.0%. Forty-eight out of 107 students (44.9%) reached the minimum passing score of 70%. Free-response feedback from both classes featured themes of more hands-on learning, a longer clinical block, and more small-group learning sessions. Conclusions: Third-year medical students scored relatively well on the exam. Student feedback suggests the 2-week musculoskeletal block is useful and relevant to their future careers.