Research and Scholarly Works

The Department of Preventive and Community Medicine I focuses on equipping students with essential knowledge and skills in health promotion, disease prevention, and epidemiology. In the first semester, the course introduces students to patient care within the context of environmental factors—including physical, psychological, social, cultural, political, and economic influences—that affect both the individual and the community. Emphasis is placed on public health activities that modify environmental risks to prevent disease, reduce disability, and improve health outcomes at both individual and community levels. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of global and national health challenges, as well as strategies for disease prevention and control. The second semester delves into the principles and methods of epidemiology, teaching students how to describe disease distribution, identify determinants of health, and plan research studies. Key statistical concepts are reviewed and applied to medical research, enabling students to design studies that generate valuable data for addressing public health concerns. This cour se prepares students to approach patient care and public health from a preventive, community-focused perspective, while honing their skills in research planning and epidemiologic analysis.

 

The Department of Preventive and Community Medicine II offers a comprehensive curriculum focused on the principles of health systems, health service organization, healthcare administration, and family medicine in the first semester, followed by applied epidemiology, public health, and medical research in the second semester. Through real-world examples, students are introduced to the complexities of the Philippine health situation and the vital role of primary healthcare in addressing multifactorial health determinants. In the realm of family medicine, students explore the biopsychosocial model, the patient-centered, family-focused, and community-oriented (PFC) matrix, and family systems, equipping them to understand the social determinants of health that shape patient and family care. The program also emphasizes the importance of community health through modules on community organizing, diagnosis, health programming, and healthcare financing. In the second semester, applied epidemiology prepares students to conduct impactful research that addresses the nation’s most pressing health challenges while adhering to ethical, professional, and legal standards. With a focus on community health needs and research dissemination, this course equips students with the skills necessary to make meaningful contributions to public health and medical research in the Philippines.

 

The Department of Basic Science Research is dedicated to exploring the foundational principles of science as they apply to medicine and clinical practice. The curriculum is designed to foster a deep understanding of research integrity, safety standards, and the latest technological advances in biomedical research. Through interactive discussions with peers and experts, students gain insights into the newest trends in molecular biology and their applications in healthcare. The program emphasizes the potential for drug discovery from local plants and the significance of identifying biomarkers within the Philippine population. By the end of the course, students will have developed not only a strong foundation in research methods but also an appreciation for the profound impact basic science research has on advancing medical practice.

 

The Department of Clinical Research equips students with essential skills for critically appraising medical literature and conducting high-quality research. The program emphasizes analytical thinking and teaches students how to write systematic reviews and meta-analyses, which are then presented in plenary sessions. Special lectures further enhance their understanding of clinical research towards the end of the year. By the end of the course, students will have mastered key competencies, including clinical proficiency, effective communication, leadership in healthcare teams, and active engagement in research. The curriculum also fosters collaboration within interprofessional teams, adherence to ethical and professional standards, and a commitment to social accountability. Through this comprehensive training, students are prepared to excel in both local and global healthcare environments while continuously developing their personal and professional growth.

 

The Service Learning Department focuses on cultivating student learning, promoting community engagement, and addressing critical health needs through a blend of academic knowledge, hands-on experience, and reflective practices. The Service Learning course immerses students in the process of creating project proposals that target specific health challenges within a chosen population or community. Through lessons on health systems, design thinking, and project development, students acquire the necessary tools to formulate impactful health initiatives. Faculty mentors provide guidance throughout the course, ensuring that students develop well-crafted and feasible proposals. By the end of the program, students are expected to present a project proposal that addresses a priority health need, which they will later implement during their internship, making meaningful contributions to the health and well-being of the communities they serve.