Lecture Discussion Pathway Courses Phase 2

Systems Curriculum

This phase begins in the second semester of the first year and continues throughout the second year.

An understanding of the etiology, pathophysiological ramifications, current diagnostic capabilities and treatments of disease is fundamental to the development of the complete osteopathic primary care physician, as well as to the systems approach of medical education. With this premise, the basic and clinical science components of the LECOM Systems Curriculum concerned with each particular organ system of the body are integrated in classroom and small group instruction/discussion.

Instructional materials presented within each particular system expand upon basic principles mastered during the Phase I Core Curriculum. Each respective system is considered from the viewpoints of the basic science disciplines of anatomy, biochemistry, microbiology, pathology, pharmacology and physiology. As a complement, clinical perspectives are offered from the point of view of both the primary care physician, as well as the respective specialist. This format of presentation promotes a better learning environment due to extensive integration/correlation of course material and provides a “real life” view of contemporary healthcare.

Importantly, clinical considerations are presented and integrated with the practical application of basic science principles. Practical knowledge acquired from the History and Physical Examination Course is reviewed, examined and discussed within a clinical context.

The osteopathic approach to patient care is continually emphasized, both philosophically and in practice, from the first day of class through graduation by means of lectures and laboratory demonstrations of manipulative techniques. Concepts of osteopathic philosophy and practice are included in all aspects of LECOM’s educational programs whenever possible.

Overall Curriculum Phase II

Course descriptions can be found in the Academic Catalog and Student Handbook.

First Year: Second Semester

  • History and Physical (H&P) Examination II
  • Musculoskeletal System
  • Basic Neurosensory System
  • Clinical Neurosensory System
  • Osteopathic Principles and Practice II

Summer (Directed Study style courses for all pathways):

  • Medical Jurisprudence
  • Medical Spanish
  • Public Health and Preventative Medicine
  • Psychiatry

Second Year: First Semester

  • Digestive System
  • Cardiovascular System
  • Respiratory System
  • Renal System
  • Osteopathic Principles and Practice III
  • History and Physical Examination III
  • Geriatric Medicine

Second Year: Second Semester

  • Hematology/Oncology System
  • Endocrine System
  • Reproductive System
  • History and Physical Examination IV
  • Advanced Cardiac Life Support (A.C.L.S.)
  • Osteopathic Principles and Practice IV
  • Integumentary System
  • Biomedical Sciences and Osteopathic Principles Convergence