In this study, we explored how community-based teaching and learning varies by gender of the students and preceptors. Ninety-three students contributed data on 5,017 patient encounters. Patient gender played little if any role in how students and their preceptors worked together. Differences of potential importance were found in teaching and learning by gender of the student-preceptor dyad. This factor can and should be considered when determining how students can best meet educational objectives in community-based ambulatory settings.
Limited information exists about the application of the biopsychosocial model in medical practice.
This study expanded our knowledge about the extent to which psychosocial content is included in medical interviews conducted by resident family physicians. Interviews of 180 patients conducted by six second-year family practice residents were audiotaped and transcribed. In this sample of residents, providers extended the interview beyond a purely biomedical focus. However, the psychosocial focus often was brief and applied inconsistently across patients. A substantial percentage of school absenteeism among children is related to transmissible infection.