Integrated Neurosciences

The year-two MD Program curriculum at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health in Madison includes a course called Integrated Neurosciences.

Overarching Course Goals for Integrated Neurosciences

• Apply knowledge of the normal nervous system structure and function to the localization of dysfunction based on symptoms and signs
  
  
• Describe abnormal nervous system structure and function, and apply knowledge of pathophysiology to the generation of a differential diagnosis, based on the localization, tempo of dysfunction, and the "ecology of the patient"
  
  
• Recognize the symptoms of a neurological emergency, defined as a disorder that may present with neurological symptoms and signs, which carries a risk of disability or death, and whose outcome may be improved with rapid recognition and treatment
  
  
• Recognize certain common neurological disorders that would be seen in a primary care setting
  
  
• Identify the neuroanatomy and physiology of cognitive and emotional systems, including memory, attention and emotion regulation in response to stress
  
  
• Compare and contrast the pathophysiology, epidemiology, presentation, course and prognosis of the major psychiatric disorders: major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, substance use disorders
  
  
• Recognize suicidality as a psychiatric emergency requiring immediate evaluation and management
  
  
• Differentiate syndromes that have both neurological and psychiatric manifestations, specifically dementia, delirium, and certain developmental disorders
  
  
• Identify the major classification of CNS drugs based on the responses they produce
  
  
• Given the major classification of a CNS drug, predict the basic mechanism of action, anticipated side effects, contraindications and precautions, and potential interactions with other drugs
  
  
• Discuss the appropriate pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies for major neurological and psychiatric conditions