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Recently, Aqsa Ahmad organized a medical school event at the Frank H Netter School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University for her capstone project where individuals with disabilities served as volunteer patients. The event enabled medical students to increase their confidence in communicating with and providing physical exams to patients with disabilities. Special Olympics Connecticut Athlete and Staff Member Angie D’Amico sat down and spoke with Aqsa about the event.

Angie D’Amico: Why did you want to do a capstone project with people with intellectual disabilities?

 Aqsa: One of the primary reasons I pursued a career in medicine was my desire to advocate for individuals with disabilities. Advocating for this marginalized population is a commitment that extends beyond my professional life and deep into my personal life. Throughout my capstone project, I aimed to create a meaningful change and inspire others to do the same.

At Frank H. Netter School of Medicine, medical students have multiple opportunities to practice their clinical skills by interacting with standardized patients in a simulated clinical setting. Recognizing the value of these experiences, I wanted my capstone project to be a means to enhance our medical school curriculum by incorporating individuals with disabilities as standardized patients. By organizing a Medical School Event where we had athletes serve as expert patient volunteers, I was able to pilot what a clinical session event would look like. This allowed us to assess if incorporating this into the curriculum would enable medical students to increase their confidence in communication and physical exam skills when interacting with patients with disabilities.

I am excited to share that the capstone project results have been positive, and the Clinical Arts and Sciences committee plans to integrate a clinical session between medical students and standardized patients with disabilities into our third-year curriculum. I am enthusiastic about this becoming a standard practice in medical education, as it will enable future generations of physicians to better interact with patients with disabilities.

Angie D'Amico: Did you or the medical students learn anything from the athletes on that day?

 Aqsa The medical students and I learned so much from the athletes that day. The medical students mentioned that the direct interaction with the athletes during the event was such an invaluable experience. They were able to build their confidence in communicating and practicing their physical exam skills. The event allowed them to acquire skills that will make them better doctors for their future patients with disabilities.

Angie D'Amico: How was your experience with Special Olympics?

 Aqsa: I had such an amazing experience with the Special Olympics atheltes. They were all so kind and enthusiastic about collaborating with the medical students. We are fortunate to have them participate, and we hope they can join us for future events at the medical school!

 Angie D'Amico What was your fondest memory working with the athletes?

 Aqsa: I really enjoyed listening to all the positive feedback I received from the athletes. One of my fondest memories was when one of the athletes expressed that they felt I genuinely cared about my role. This heartfelt recognition brought a smile to my face and brightened my entire day. Moments like this throughout the session reaffirmed my passion for what I do.

I also enjoyed doing a focus group with the athletes to better understand their perspectives on how the Medical School Event went. Their answers provided invaluable insight on improving similar events in the future.

 Angie D'Amico: Can you tell me what was the best part of doing this capstone project?

Aqsa: This capstone project has been such a fulfilling experience for numerous reasons. One thing that I enjoyed was the in-person training session I gave to all the athletes. During this time, I introduced them to their roles as expert patients and encouraged them to practice advocating for their needs when they are with the medical students. I wanted to give them a toolbox of skills that they can utilize to confidently navigate their doctor visits and effectively communicate their healthcare needs. Empowering the athletes to advocate for themselves to ensure they receive equitable healthcare was truly rewarding!