News for Academic Physicians

Join the AMA-SMS Governing Council; apply by March 5

Applications are due March 5 for positions on the 2012–2013 AMA Section on Medical Schools (SMS) Governing Council, including chair-elect, three member-at-large slots, delegate, alternate delegate and section liaison to the AMA Council on Medical Education. Elections will be held in June during the AMA-SMS Annual Assembly Meeting.

Applications and position descriptions are available online. If you have questions, email Jackie Drake of the AMA.

Changes coming to Step 2 Clinical Skills examination

Several enhancements that affect the Step 2 Clinical Skills portion of the United States Medical Licensure Examination (USMLE) are scheduled to be implemented later this year.

The enhancements are part of the USMLE's review of the test—an effort to extend the power and scope of assessments beyond what is possible with multiple choice questions and the other items presently used in USMLE.

For example, the Communication and Interpersonal Skills subcomponent has been redesigned to assess a fuller range of competencies. Several additional functions are still under development; these include making decisions, supporting emotions and helping patients with behavior change.

In addition, the new patient note provides examinees with an opportunity to document their analysis of a patient's possible diagnoses.

These changes are in line with the AMA's work to enhance the medical school admissions process to encourage assessment of applicants' behavioral competencies, such as altruism, motivation for medicine, dedication and intellectual curiosity.

New training emphasizes behavioral, social sciences

A new report from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) explains that broader exposure to the behavioral and social sciences during medical school and residency training can equip future physicians with the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to practice medicine effectively.

The report, "Behavioral and Social Science Foundations for Future Physicians," recognizes that doctors' application of biomedical science will be best realized in a more engaged, holistic worldview that takes into account the complexity of responses and interactions in any system. This approach can help physicians provide better patient care, reduce medical errors, improve compliance, lessen burnout, reduce health care disparities and improve quality and outcomes.

Read more in the latest edition of AMA MedEd Update, which features news and information from across the continuum of medical education. If you're not receiving AMA MedEd Update, subscribe today.