Letter from the Provost

There is compelling evidence that medical students face a challenging task to build a solid foundation for their medical career by mastering Basic Sciences material and their application in practicing medicine. It is therefore not surprising that medical educators are constantly coming up with newer approaches to maximize the outcome of basic sciences training. This new curriculum has been developed with the goal of achieving an integrated and flexible curriculum that goes beyond examinations, preparing students to face the challenges that await them in clinical training and practice. This curriculum promotes the skill and art of medicine, critical thinking and lifetime learning. The courses use a variety of teaching methods besides large group didactics, such as small group sessions, clinical case discussions, simulations and hands-on laboratory experience. The emphasis is not only on building a sound and robust knowledge base of the basic sciences, but also learning practical applications in everyday clinical settings that the student will encounter in medical practice.

Although each branch of medical science has its own importance and essence, the current trend indicates that the medical course may be made more effective and thought-provoking for medical students provided the different branches are integrated.

Seymour Schwartz, MD

Provost, Chief Academic Officer

American University of Antigua College of Medicine