The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #51904

Meridel Gatterman, MA, DC, MEd and John Hyland, DC. Colorado Chiropractic College, 3001 Federal Blvd., Campus Box 1126, Denver, CO 80236, (303) 937-4272, mgatterman@chiro.mcrest.edu

Objective: The objective is to promote wellness through a patient-centered curriculum. The purpose is to incorporate a wellness model into a patient-centered, evidence based curriculum, in both the classroom and teaching clinics. Methods: Consistent with the wellness model identified by the American Chiropractic Association, a patient-centered, evidence-based curriculum has been implemented in a new chiropractic educational program. Methods of teaching are presented. Results: Evaluation of the students’ competence is based on current coursework and the results of a survey measuring patient-centeredness. Conclusion: In order to prepare practitioners to provide wellness care based on evidence that considers each patient’s unique situation, a multi-varied approach to curriculum development, has been implemented. The knowledge, attitudes, and skills needed to prepare Doctors of Chiropractic to practice wellness care are evaluated.

Learning Objectives: Attendees will be able to

• Define wellness care in the context of a patient-centered, evidence-based chiropractic curriculum.
• Identify the knowledge, attitudes, and skills needed to prepare Doctors of Chiropractic to provide wellness care, and to promote a healthy lifestyle beyond a condition-based model.
• Determine the effectiveness of a patient-centered, evidence-based approach in teaching a wellness model evaluated through student assessment including the application of survey instruments.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.