Breast Cancer Instructional Module

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Breast cancer treatment involves multidisciplinary teams with varying levels of expertise. This module is intended to enhance the knowledge base of healthcare professionals regarding the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of early and late stage breast cancer through case-based, small group discussions. Methods This module was delivered at a 1.5-hour morning conference with multiple levels and types of trainees (i.e., hematology/oncology fellows, internal medicine residents, surgery residents, radiation oncology residents, third− and fourth-year medical students, physician assistants specializing in oncology, upper level pharmacy students, and oncology nurses) dispersed evenly into groups. This instructional module allowed trainees to collaborate together to discuss challenging patient cases and board-relevant topics, while fostering an interactive learning environment. For optimal delivery of the educational material, we recommend an instructor with an oncology background or familiarity with breast cancer. Results By openly discussing and disputing the questions and short answer cases at the end of the module, our trainees endorsed better comprehension of the material compared to a lecture format and all levels of trainees felt this was a nonthreatening, and effective method of learning new material and reinforcing concepts. Each participant filled out an evaluation and this activity was well received by all with scores in the four to five range. Discussion Although no test is performed to assess their knowledge base before and after, the knowledge gained from this exercise is clear in the way learners approach and discuss breast cancer patient care after the session.

Keywords

• Breast Neoplasms
• Brenner Tumor
• Fibroepithelial Neoplasms
• Solid Tumor
• Medical Oncology
• Mass Screening