Introduction to Clinical Medicine (MBS-0205)

Spring 2025 · MBS 0205 · Tufts University · 1.5 credits · Undergraduate

This course represents a survey of clinical medicine as practiced by physicians and other health care providers in Western countries. During the first half, students are introduced to basic human physiology; pathophysiology; and the fundamentals of clinical medicine including history taking, the physical examination, diagnostic testing, and modern therapeutics. During the second half, students apply information learned in the first half to the most prevalent diseases that plaque the developed world. Issues pertaining to population medicine and public health, health promotion and disease prevention, behavioral influences on health, and alternative medicine are also covered in the context of applicable disease states. The overall objectives of the course are to 1) identify the major the determinants of health genetic, environmental, behavioral and social and consider the extent to which physicians can influence their health effects; 2) describe the general processes undertaken to arrive at a diagnosis, formulate a treatment plan, counsel a patient, and assess the benefits and harms of an intervention; 3) explore the relevant professional, ethical and interpersonal parameters that define the patient-physician relationship; 4) explain the scientific rationale behind medical decision-making and identify the major non-scientific factors that influence the day-to-day practice of medicine; 5) illustrate common diagnostic, treatment and preventive interventions for selected conditions and describe the principles governing their safe and effective clinical application; and 6) gain first-hand experience in the collection, organization, interpretation, analysis and communication of clinical information.

Course codes: MBS-0205, MBS 0205, MBS0205, MBS-205, MBS 205, MBS205

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