MEDICAL SCREENING I

This intensive course during the first semester of the DPT curriculum provides students with detailed coverage of human anatomy through lecture and cadaver dissection. The focus of the course is on structure and the integral relationship between structure and function. A comprehensive understanding of normal structure and function provides the foundation for understanding abnormal structure and function. Both the lecture and laboratory components of the course are critical to success in the program and as a competent entry-level clinician. Using a patient case-based approach this course will emphasize utilizing clinical decision making/differential diagnosis skills effectively and efficiently related to the concept of threshold detection to identify impairments or “red flags” in medical screening that warrant referral to other professionals. While they establish examination schemes, students will evaluate patient data in order to select the next-best history question to ask, or the next-best physical examination procedure to help rule out potential pathological processes. Existing medical screening guidelines will be reviewed and applied to the various cases-illustrating appropriate use of the guidelines and also potential limitations. Professional communication skills and strategies with patient/clients and physicians will be applied and practiced throughout course.