Patient, Doctor and Society (PDS)

The first and second year of the MD Program curriculum at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health in Madison includes a course called Patient, Doctor and Society.

Patient, Doctor and Society is a four-semester course, focusing on biological, psychological and social aspects of patient centered care. The course teaches communication skills, physical examination, evidence-based medicine, professionalism and health care in society.

Patient, Doctor and Society Components

• Lectures and case conferences: These whole-class sessions meet in one of the Health Sciences Learning Center auditoriums. A detailed schedule of the dates, topics, presenters, and times is included in the syllabus. Lectures and case conferences are not included in small group leader responsibilities; however leaders are welcome to attend.
  
  
• Small groups: Students will meet in groups of four to eight with one or two instructors for two hours weekly. Small group leaders will receive their list of students during an orientation session. All small group sessions are scheduled in the Health Sciences Learning Center. A detailed schedule with objectives and outlines of sessions are included in the syllabus.
  
  
• Generalist Partners Program (GPP) clinic visits: Students complete three or more clinical sessions with their assigned generalist preceptor during the semester. A suggested schedule is sent to each student and preceptor. The dates of these sessions may be altered to meet the needs of students and preceptors, as long as three or more sessions are completed.

Patient, Doctor and Society Courses

Patient, Doctor and Society 1

Patient, Doctor and Society 2

Patient, Doctor and Society 3

Patient, Doctor and Society 4