Pulmonary hypertension – an unmet need in undergraduate medical education

Introduction: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a fascinating subject which interdigitates with many specialities as the classification of the condition into five groups testifies. Knowledge of the condition is, in our experience, poor among medical students. As doctors, this subject is relevant regardless of future career direction. To address this gap, we have arranged a formal training programme for medical students each term at St George’s University of London. Aim: To improve knowledge in PH among our medical students Methods: For over 10 years medical students have been performing specialist subject modules (SSM) in PH over a term. This involves weekly meetings with Professor Brendan Madden, opportunities to attend Right Heart Catheterisation lists, Computed Tomography scanning, lung function testing, cardiac MRI, PH outpatient clinics, multidisciplinary team meetings and ward rounds. At the end of the study period, each student prepares a 4,000 word PH related project and gives a 5 minute presentation; and provides feedback on the course. The grade attained contributes towards their end of year grade. Results: For the past 10 years, 200 second year medical students (10 students each term, for two terms a year), participated in this course. All rated their experience very useful and reported that the lessons learnt helped them with their future medical cases. Patient feedback was also positive. 70% attained an honours grade. None failed. 7 students presented their work at international scientific meetings. Conclusion: We believe that PH is poorly taught at medical school and projects such as ours helps to address this.