Implementing Lifestyle Medicine in Undergraduate Medical Education at Riphah International University, Pakistan

Abstract

The Need of the LM content in Medical undergraduate curriculum was imperative based on the mortality and morbidity statistics in Pakistan along with lack of LM training and unhealthy lifestyle of physicians themselves. Aims and Objectives for integrating LM content were designed including cognitive, affective and psychomotor domains of learning. while embedding LM content in an integrated modular system, every step was technically monitored and matched with the academic year, teaching methodology and importance of the topic. LM content was integrated in every educational activity from first to final year by adding or modifying LM learning objectives. The alignment of learning domains was in accordance with the teaching and assessment strategies. Teaching methods chosen were according to the designed learning objectives and phase of curriculum. LM content was assessed in formative and summative assessment through, single best and case cluster MCQs, reflections, OSPE. LM curriculum was communicated to teaching faculty and medical students through academic calendar, module guides and timetables. It was shared on Moodle and Teams. Educational environment incorporated both physical and virtual learning and has been supportive of lifestyle practices among medical students. The entire process of embedding LM content in medical education has been multifaceted. Different committees were formed including Steering, Core, implementation, and Evaluation Committees. Students were part of each committee. This write-up describes the evidence-based approach used to embed LM content in Undergraduate Medical Education and offers guidance to other undergraduate medical colleges that may wish to implement lifestyle medicine content. ‘“The Need of the LM curriculum was imperative based on the mortality and morbidity data of lifestyle related diseases in Pakistan along with lack of LM training and unhealthy lifestyle of physicians themselves.”’