A multidisciplinary approach to sexual dysfunction in medical education.

OBJECTIVE

Addressing sexual health concerns in medical practice has been an emerging concept for the past two decades. However, there have been very few educational opportunities in medical training that would prepare future physicians for such a responsibility. Since assessing and treating sexual problems requires knowledge that encompasses many disciplines and requires skills typically not within the purview of medical training, the authors propose a multidisciplinary model that includes collaboration with sex therapists.

METHODS

The authors review the extant literature on sexual health education in medical training.

RESULTS

The authors describe an existing and evolving model at the University of Michigan which is based on several collaborative initiatives between the medical school, the psychiatry residency program, and several medical departments.

CONCLUSION

The authors propose a collaborative training model that would facilitate future physicians' comfort with the subject and the acquisition of skills necessary to provide optimal care for patients who present with sexual health concerns.