Evaluation of sexual health medicine teaching at medical schools in Australia and New Zealand

Abstract

Background: In the absence of guidelines for sexual health medicine (SHM) curriculum for medical schools in Australia and New Zealand, little is known about the current curriculum. We therefore, sought to quantitatively and qualitatively measure the existing SHM teaching at medical schools in the region.

Methods: SHM specialists and Deans (or their nominated delegates) were requested to complete a questionnaire with respect to the SHM teaching in their associated medical schools.

Results: Forty-two specialists completed the questionnaire. Wide variations were found in the time spent on various topics in SHM. 'Training to teach' was found to be a major unmet need of SHM specialists. Four (16.7%) of 24 medical schools completed the questionnaire. The total time allocated to SHM in these medical schools varied from 13.6 to 39.0 h, with a median of 31.1 h. At least 70% of key SHM topics were covered in all curricula.

Conclusion: SHM teaching varied markedly in terms of subject matter, allocated time and teaching modalities. National guidelines for the teaching of SHM to medical students could facilitate the development of more consistent standards within the medical workforce. Training in teaching and learning methods to specialists may improve dissemination of sexual health skills to the wider medical workforce.