The AAO Journal, 2025/06, 35(2):21–22. doi: 10.53702/i2375-5717-35.2.13, type of study: ,ppt,

Full text    (https://aaoj.kglmeridian.com/view/journals/aaoj/35/2/article-p13.xml)

Keywords:

clerkship [34]
confidence [12]
medical students [694]
OMT [3924]
osteopathic manipulative treatment [3945]
osteopathic medicine [2109]
pretest posttest design [240]
rounds [2]
USA [1752]
utilization [28]

Abstract:

Background: Studies suggest that limited exposure of osteopathic medical students (OMS) to clinicians using osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) impacts their ability to apply the osteopathic knowledge and skills developed during preclinical years. Other studies suggest that simulated activities can improve confidence and skills during clinical clerkships and presumably in the application of OMT. Phase 1 Methodology: OMS III, as part of their requirements, simulated the role of osteopathic resident physicians by presenting one of four in-patient scenarios followed by discussions with OMM faculty and fellow students, and practicing related OMT in a simulated hospital setting. Pre- and post- activity Likert scales assessed changes in confidence and attitudes. Phase 2 Methodology: As OMS IVs, another Likert scale survey will further assess students’ levels of confidence and attitudes to evaluate the impact of the OMS III activities on OMT use during remaining clerkships. A survey on current OMM practices will be emailed to PGY-1 CHSU graduates who didn't participate, serving as a control. Results: Analysis of Phase I surveys revealed significant improvements in the levels of students’ post-simulation confidence in OMM knowledge, diagnosis, and treatment (p < 0.001), and greater confidence in explaining OMM to diverse audiences (p < 0.05). However, the intervention did not influence specialty preferences or interest in osteopathically recognized programs (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Phase 1 findings indicate simulated OMM hospital rounds significantly enhance OMS III confidence in OMM knowledge, skills, and communication. Phase 2 has yet to be completed but will further evaluate the impact of the simulations on OMT practices, barriers to applying OMT during clerkships and intended future use. These insights should contribute to improved strategies to encourage the application of OMM throughout training.