Medical nutrition: a comprehensive, school-wide curriculum review

Abstract

Background: A school-wide nutrition program was established in 1982 and a required medical nutrition course (MNC) was established in 1985 at the University of Nevada School of Medicine. Emphasis was placed on developing an integrated curriculum and on using innovative methods to incorporate nutrition into the existing curriculum.

Objective: The objective of this review was to establish a baseline and make positive curricular changes to comply with the recommendations of the Liaison Committee on Medical Education for accreditation. The MNC and the nutrition curriculum were evaluated as part of this 3-y comprehensive, school-wide evaluation process.

Design: The MNC was invited for review (December 2004) because of its position in the curriculum (first year), special content and methods, and relation to other courses. A review team, which consisted of the Assistant Dean for Medical Education (who chaired the team), a curriculum coordinator, faculty representatives, and a medical student, was appointed. The MNC coordinator prepared a review book that included the requested documentation. The initial 3-h review meeting culminated in a formal evaluation and recommendations. Follow-up meetings at 1 mo and 1 y were scheduled.

Results: The review was a positive process that reaffirmed the uniqueness of the nutrition program at the University. It supported the MNC as an important part of the required curriculum. Recommendations included use of the Web, encouragement to identify new opportunities with interested faculty, and a structure to further integrate and align nutrition into existing courses.

Conclusions: A positive, proactive review process supports the importance of nutrition in the medical school curriculum and encourages further integration.