Should a clinical rotation in hematology be mandatory for undergraduate medical students?

Abstract

Clinical rotations form the foundation of medical education. Medical students in the UK are offered conventional rotations such as cardiology, surgery, and psychiatry as part of their undergraduate curriculum, but a rotation in hematology is not currently mandatory. This paper explores the benefits of a compulsory hematology rotation, and suggests recommendations for its implementation in UK medical school curricula.

Undergraduate hematology – a more integrated approach

“…The authors highlight a gap in clinical hematology teaching, particularly compared to “conventional rotations” 1. Their suggestion has merits and we agree with most of the points raised; however, propose instead for us to build on current teaching as opposed to establishing a new rotation.…”

“…In the original article it is mentioned that “clinical experience allows students to comprehend and apply this knowledge in practice, enabling the all-important integration of their learning” 1. As we agree that hematology overlaps with other specialties and therefore requires a thorough understanding, we value how a clinical attachment would be useful to solidify lecture-based teaching.…”

“…As fellow medical students we read with great interest the article by Mandan et al1 proposing a dedicated hematology rotation. The authors highlight a gap in clinical hematology teaching, particularly compared to “conventional rotations” 1.…”

“…Second, the article mentions that “conventional rotations such as cardiology, surgery, and psychiatry” are “offered”, but a hematology rotation is not “mandatory” 1. Although these “conventional rotations” are available, the implication that they are mandatory is not true.…”

“…The authors go on to say that students should spend more time in laboratories during attachments to acquire the laboratory skills required by foundation doctors 1. A factor that may need to be taken into consideration is whether the university encourages BSc intercalation.…”