Clinical Issues module (GM52036)

Medically Assisted Reproduction (MAR) is treatment to help patients conceive. This includes a wide range of interventions, such as ovulation induction, intra-uterine insemination, and surgery. Assisted Reproduction Technology (ART), such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and fertility preservation are also examples of MAR.

This is a rapidly advancing area of medicine, and is also the subject of various clinical controversies.

Building on your knowledge from the GM50030 Fundamental Science Module, you will explore the clinical aspects of reproductive medicine, with a focus on ethical and legal issues. The close links we have with the highly successful Assisted Conception Unit (ACU) at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee allows students to be taught by specialised clinical staff. To enhance your understanding of the patient experience, you will be following patients throughout their fertility treatment.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• explore the clinical aspects of reproductive medicine
• understand general infertility
• examine both male and female infertility
• study different types of Assisted Reproduction Technology (ART)

By the end of the module, you will be able to:

• critically evaluate the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and practices required of a competent reflective leader in reproductive medicine
• apply core theoretical principles in ART to patient management
• manage complex ethical and professional issues and make informed judgments on issues not addressed by current professional or ethical codes or practices
• demonstrate an advanced range of written and verbal communication skills with students, staff, and patients within a reproductive medicine context

Assignments/assessment

Summative Assessments:

• short-answer questions (50%)
• clinical case presentation (50%)

Formative Assignments:

• question and answer sessions
• posters
• discussion boards
• quizzes
• clinical case discussions

Teaching methods

• clinics and theatres in the Assisted Conception Unit
• lectures
• tutorials
• workshops
• interactive journal clubs
• case presentations
• discussion boards

Some of the teaching will be provided jointly with MSc students. Additional support can also be provided through your academic advisor. All teaching will be delivered at Ninewells Hospital/University of Dundee Medical School with an interactive nature. Some lectures will be recorded.