Simulation: an Innovative Approach to Engaging Preclinical Medical Students with Bioethics.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Integrating bioethical concepts into preclinical medical school curriculum and engaging early medical learners in bioethics are a challenge. ACTIVITY A total of 140 medical students participated in a 2-h simulation activity consisting of a series of standardized patient (SP) encounters. RESULTS: A total of 41 of 140 students (29%) completed the learner evaluation survey. Ninety-one percent thought that the SP encounter was relevant to their role as a future physician. Ninety-three percent of students rated the exercise as highly effective. CONCLUSIONS: SP encounters enhance preclinical medical students' engagement with bioethics and provide learners practice applying these concepts to clinically relevant scenarios.