Patient-Centered Learning: The Connor Johnson Case—Substance Abuse in a Physician

• Published in: MedEdPORTAL Vol. 8
• Main Authors: Christianson, Charles E., Carlson, David L., Cooley, Marvin, Allen, Jon W., Vari, Richard C.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Association of American Medical Colleges 10.04.2012
• Subjects: Drug Addiction; Drug Use; Endocarditis; Impaired Physicians; Substance-Related Disorders
• ISSN: 2374-8265; 2374-8265
• DOI: 10.15766/mep_2374-8265.9146

Abstract This is a problem-based learning (PBL) case designed for three 2-hour small group meetings addressing substance abuse in an integrated medical context. It emphasizes the importance of considering substance abuse in the differential diagnosis, even when not obvious, and highlights the issue of substance abuse among physicians. This PBL case involves a patient with substance abuse who is diagnosed in the course of care for a medical problem, emphasizing the importance of considering substance abuse in the differential diagnosis, even when not obvious. Students usually do not consider substance abuse as part of their differential diagnosis initially when addressing a medical problem, so this case helps break down that compartmentalization in their thinking. Also, the patient is a physician, so the case highlights the issue of substance abuse among physicians. This case was piloted in October 2008 in the University of North Dakota School of Medicine & Health Sciences' second-year class, comprising of approximately 63 students in eight small groups. It has been used for several years since with second-year students at the institution and has been well-received in terms of the educational experience and objectives.