The AAO Journal, 2024/06, 34(2):26. doi: 10.53702/i2375-5717-34.2.16, type of study: ,ppt,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

Full text    (https://meridian.allenpress.com/aaoj/article/34/2/16/500954/LBORC-NUFA-Poster-Abstracts-2024-Students)

Keywords:

medical students [694]
OMT [3924]
osteopathic manipulative treatment [3945]
osteopathic medicine [2109]
pretest posttest design [240]
USA [1752]

Abstract:

Background: The Journal of Osteopathic Medicine reported of 1683 osteopathic physicians surveyed, 1308 indicated they used osteopathic manipulation techniques (OMT) in less than 5% of their patients. While there are a number of potential variables contributing to this limited use of OMT by DOs, this study focuses on effecting change at the level of undergraduate training of futures DOs by measuring the impact of a peer led training program. Objectives: To determine whether or not voluntary participation in a peer-led review and preview program leads to improved competency, confidence, and willingness to apply OMT in upcoming clinical rotations. Methods: OMS2 (Osteopathic Medical Student) teaching assistants (TAs) utilized course skill sheets to direct weekly, hour-long, small-group practice sessions. Sessions began after the midterm exam and involved a hands-on review of the techniques from the previous week’s lab as well as a preview of the techniques for the upcoming lab. An identical course-based survey was administered to OMS1 after the mid-term exam and the week prior to their final exam containing questions about perceived confidence, interest, and competency in applying OMT to clinical practice. Results: Students participating in weekly peer led sessions recorded an average increase in confidence and willingness to utilize OMT in future practice by greater than 10% when comparing the end of course survey to the midterm survey. Conversely, there was an average decline in the measurements by greater than 19% when evaluating the same survey results for student not participating in weekly sessions. Similar findings were found amongst the 2 groups when evaluating competency, 81% to 76% respectively. Conclusion: Weekly peer-led sessions over 8 weeks increased competency, confidence, and willingness to apply OMT in future practice.