The Use of Models in Anatomy and Clinical Skills: How Diverse are They?

In the world of medical education, there are multiple avenues for teaching anatomy to aspiring medical students. These include traditional methods like cadavers, visual aids such as images, and the exciting world of 3D models. However, it's increasingly evident that we need to step up our game in promoting diversity in these teaching materials to ensure a fair and realistic representation of clinical practice and the diverse patient populations we'll encounter in our careers.

Some studies have already shown that incorporating 3D models into medical education can significantly enhance our learning experience. But here's a shocking fact: a study published in 2018 in the Journal of Medical Education and Curricular Development found that less than 5% of images in general medical textbooks included individuals with darker skin tones. This highlights a major gap in our educational resources.

Within the medical student community, there's growing awareness of this lack of diversity in 3D models. It's crucial to understand that seeing a diverse range of anatomical representations isn't just about political correctness; it's about improving our ability to provide accurate diagnoses and eliminating any unconscious biases that might affect our patient care.

Recently, a game-changing resource has emerged from ELSEVIER called "Complete Anatomy." This resource introduces the world's most advanced 3D full female anatomy model, a significant departure from the long-standing trend of male-dominated teaching models. What's even more exciting is that it showcases a variety of skin tones and facial features. Now, students from all walks of life can learn from a model that looks more like them and the diverse patient populations they'll eventually serve.

Looking ahead, we have high hopes that more accessible resources will become available, ensuring that cost doesn't stand in the way of obtaining diverse anatomical models. This shift towards inclusivity in medical education will not only make us better clinicians but also help us connect with and serve our patients more effectively. It's an exciting step forward in our journey to become well-rounded and compassionate healthcare professionals.