In a groundbreaking open-access publication in Cureus, a team of students and faculty from the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM-Bradenton) have made significant strides in addressing a critical gap in medical education.
The article, entitled Bridging Gaps in Adolescent and Adult Sexual Health: Training Medical Students as Educators, underscores the urgent need for standardized sexual health education to equip future physicians with the knowledge, cultural awareness, and confidence to provide comprehensive sexual and reproductive health counseling.
Authored by Abigail Abraham and four fellow LECOM scholars, under the mentorship of Dr. Paul Cervone, LECOM Associate Professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Surgery, this study highlights a crucial aspect of medical training: specifically the ability to educate patients effectively about sexual health. The researchers focus upon the importance of preparing medical students not just as providers of care, but as advocates and educators for their patients, particularly when it comes to the complex and often under-addressed topic of adolescent and adult sexual health.
This publication offers a timely and valuable resource for medical institutions, policy makers, and educators seeking to enhance sexual health curricula. By equipping students with the skills to engage in sensitive and important discussions, the research aims to create a more confident and knowledgeable generation of physicians—better prepared to meet the needs of various patient populations.
The full study is available to read for free at the following link: Bridging Gaps in Adolescent and Adult Sexual Health
LECOM soundly supports this essential training, educating healthcare leaders to better meet the needs of adolescents and adults alike.