ASDO 5000 - Fundamentals of Patient Management 1A

Basic Science Core: Embryology, Histology, and Pathology: This comprehensive section covers the development, microscopic structure, and pathology of the body, with a strong emphasis on the craniofacial region and oral structures. Students will learn the major events of craniofacial embryology and the histology of the oral cavity, including tooth development and the cells/tissues of teeth, the periodontal ligament, and the temporomandibular joint. The course also covers general pathology, including cellular changes, necrosis, calcifications, tumor taxonomy, and the pathology of common genetic and congenital diseases.

Basic Science Core: Pharmacology: This submodule introduces the dental student to basic principles of pharmacology and related applications to the prevention and treatment of oral and systemic diseases.  The course integrates and reinforces the basic science material by combining the clinical aspects of the pathology of a certain system, its oral manifestations and dental management with the pharmacological basis for its treatment. Using patient cases to illustrate these concepts, students analyze medical histories to discuss the dental implications of the specific pathology, while emphasizing its pharmacological management. 

Basic Science core: Biochemistry: This module introduces the language, structure, and function of cells, organelles, and the major classes of macromolecules. It presents the fundamental concepts and principles of biochemistry, emphasizing how homeostasis is maintained through the regulation of metabolic pathways and how an aberration of a biochemical process can result in disease.  This provides the necessary foundation for understanding biological processes in organ-based modules.

Basic Science Core: Genetics: This segment explores the chromosomal basis of heredity and the structure and function of the human genome. Students will evaluate patterns of single gene inheritance, learn the tools of molecular genetics, and examine genetic variation in relation to mutation and polymorphism. The module covers principles of clinical cytogenetics, discusses various chromosomal disorders, and explores the genetics of complex inherited disorders, along with the ethical and societal implications of genetic testing.

Body Systems - Musculoskeletal: Following this module, students should be able to apply their knowledge of human anatomy, as it relates to the nervous system, back/spine/abdominal wall, and upper extremity, and think critically about aspects of their clinical practice in dentistry including patient care and ergonomics.

Body Systems - Hematology: This module provides a detailed examination of hematology and the lymphatic system, focusing on the composition, function, and pathology of blood. Key topics include the synthesis and function of red blood cells and hemoglobin, interpreting hematologic tests, and understanding the anatomy and role of the lymphatic system. The module places a strong emphasis on hemostasis, covering the role of platelets and clotting factors, the function of anticoagulation agents, and the pathology of clotting abnormalities, while also addressing blood types and major hematologic diseases such as anemias, leukemias, and lymphomas.

Body Systems - Endocrinology: This module offers a focused exploration of the endocrine system, examining the function and regulation of key glands and their associated target tissues. It covers the hormones, disorders, and treatment approaches related to the pituitary, thyroid, and adrenal glands, as well as the regulation of calcium and vitamin D, and the pathogenesis and management of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Finally, the module addresses the endocrine system’s role in male reproduction and the regulation of growth.

Body Systems - Cardiovascular: This module offers a comprehensive study of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, integrating gross anatomy, histology, and physiology with relevant pathology. Students will learn the detailed structure and function of the heart, including cardiac muscle contraction, electrophysiology, and the cardiac cycle, along with pathologies like heart wall and valve disorders, angina, and heart failure. The module also covers the anatomy and physiology of blood vessels, focusing on hemodynamics, regulation of arterial blood pressure, and diseases such as hypertension and arteriosclerosis. Finally, it explores the respiratory system, detailing lung mechanics, gas transport, regulation of breathing, and the pathophysiology of conditions like asthma and acid-base disturbances.

Body Systems - Respiratory: This module will cover the principles of the respiratory system with its functions (blood gases and exchange of materials with tissues, pathophysiology of respiration, and pulmonary disease, etc.).

Head & Neck Anatomy: Following this module, students should be able to apply their knowledge of human anatomy as it relates to bones, nerves, vasculature, muscles, spaces, and viscera of the head and neck region. Students will be able to think critically about aspects of head and neck anatomy that are relevant to their clinical practice in dentistry, its specialties, and consultation or collaboration for patient care with medical colleagues.

Practice Management: This course provides a comprehensive overview of dental specialties and subspecialties while equipping students with essential personal and professional management skills. Key topics include analyzing financial reports (balance sheets, income statements, and budgets), understanding the application of strategic planning in decision-making, and mastering career documentation by distinguishing between resumes and CVs, writing an impactful CV, and crafting effective cover letters. Additionally, students will gain knowledge about various retirement vehicles and associated vocabulary.

Professionalism: The primary goals of this module are to identify and acknowledge patterns of professional behavior and help students to correct patterns of unprofessional behavior. In developing patterns of professional behavior, students should be guided by the principles described in the ASDOH Academic Integrity Policy and the University Code of Behavioral Standards.

• Explore the concepts of professionalism and professional student behavior, including academic integrity in a professional healthcare program.
• Identify and correct patterns of professional and unprofessional behavior.
• Introduce the foundational knowledge of fundamental ethical principles and professional conduct to the profession of dentistry

Cultural Proficiency:  Introduce the concept of cultural proficiency including its meaning, guiding principles, essential elements, the cultural proficiency continuum, and barriers to cultural proficiency development.