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Medical Student Attitudes on Nutrition Counseling After Implementation of a Novel Curricular Activity

Abstract Objective: The aim of this research was to determine the changes in medical student attitudes toward nutrition counseling after implementation of a novel curricular activity during a required third-year clerkship. Method: All third-year medical students completing their required family medicine clerkship were invited to participate in a voluntary survey composed of the Nutrition in Patient Care Survey (NIPS) and demographics before their required curricular clerkship activity consisting of two separate case-based modules focused on nutritional aspects of patient care. Students and faculty facilitators met via web platform at an assigned time to review and discuss questions. All students were invited to complete the postsurvey composed of only the NIPS. Results: Completion rate was 31% for both pre- and postsurveys. Students’ intended specialty choice did not lead to a significant difference in scores on any of the five subscales on pre-intervention surveys. Almost half (43.9%) of the students who completed the surveys reported offering nutrition-related counseling despite lack of formal training. The Physician–Patient Relationship score went from 4.29 to 4.37 (p < 0.03) and the Physician Efficacy score went from 3.18 to 3.34 (p < 0.01). The was no significant difference identified pre- versus postintervention for the Clinical Behavior scales. Conclusions: The modules used in this pilot study resulted in positive changes in student attitudes toward counseling patients about nutrition. The inclusion of required case-based modules focused on nutrition is feasible and can positively impact student attitudes regarding their efficacy in counseling patients.