Challenges and Opportunities in Trauma Informed Medical Education
CLIME | Recorded May 10, 2024
Jennifer Potter, MD
Dr. Potter (she/her) is a Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and a national leader in trauma-informed care (TIC) and health equity for women and sexual and gender minority (SGM) communities. She has authored over 100 peer-reviewed articles, mentored more than 75 trainees, and co-edited three key textbooks. Dr. Potter helped develop the first undergraduate medical education competencies in TIC and SGM health. At Harvard, she serves as an Advisory Dean and holds leadership roles in several curricular and CME initiatives. She is also an Associate Editor for MedEdPORTAL and advises institutions on health equity. Her many honors include the Harold Amos Faculty Diversity Award and the AAMC’s Leadership Award in Women in Medicine and Science.
Key Takeaways
Dr. Potter, shared insights on integrating trauma-informed care (TIC) principles into medical education.
Highlights include:
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Trauma is common and impacts learning, well-being, and professional development.
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Medical educators should apply TIC by fostering safety, trust, empowerment, and cultural awareness.
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Use strategies like content advisories, supportive learning environments, and emotional regulation tools to help students stay engaged and resilient.
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Faculty play a key role in modeling vulnerability, offering support, and revising trauma-uninformed practices.
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Systemic change is essential—TIC should be embedded at the individual, curricular, and institutional levels.
Explore resources and curriculum at TIC4MEED.org.
WATCH THE RECORDING
Recorded on May 10,2024, Captions Available