honoring Excellence in Medical Education

The Spanish Society of Medical Education (SEDEM) convened its Biennial Congress in late November, celebrating advancements and addressing critical issues in medical training. Dr. joaquín García-Estañ López,president of SEDEM,presided over the event,which commenced with the Antonio Gallego 2024 Award presentation.The award recognized Professor Jesús Escanero Marcén, emeritus professor at the University of Zaragoza, for his distinguished career in Spanish medical education.

The Enduring Legacy of Miriam Friedman

A highlight of the congress was the Miriam Friedman Lesson – Great Trajectory, which honored two teachers, including Professor Ronald harden. Harden delivered a presentation on Miriam Friedman’s profound contributions to medical education. Friedman, who passed away in 2004, is remembered for her lasting impact on medical training.

Its integrating and holistic approach in curricular design has been fundamental to improve the quality of medical programs.

Fostering Social Obligation and Curriculum Innovation

Professor María Teresa Alfonso, from Fribourg University, proposed the development of an Iberophone network to promote social responsibility in health. A session led by Dr. Montserrat esquerda explored the ongoing evolution of medical curricula, questioning what might be missing or outdated.

Artificial Intelligence in Medical Education: Opportunities and Ethical Considerations

friday’s sessions focused on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in medical education. Innovations such as Virpad, an AI-based virtual patient developed by the University of the Basque Country, were showcased. Dr. Rocío González Solter presented findings from a research project on AI in medical education, supported by a SEDEM scholarship.

Experts, including Dr. Juan José Beunza, Dr. Miguel Marcos, and Dr. Javier Rascón, discussed the ethical challenges and opportunities presented by AI in medical education.

The importance of supervising the use of these technologies was emphasized and of training professionals in their responsible management.

Clinical Simulation: Realism and efficacy

Professor Miguel Fernández-Villacañas led a session on clinical simulation, exploring its realism and effectiveness. The session addressed controversies and challenges,including a live urgency simulation. Dr. Manuel Párraga highlighted the role of simulation in developing key competencies for 21st-century doctors.

The Legacy and Future of Medical Education

Dr. Antonio López Vega, director of the Ortega-Marañón foundation, delivered a plenary conference emphasizing the importance of historical legacy in shaping the future of medical education.

Competencies for Medical Teachers

A session on the competencies of medical teachers analyzed the skills necessary for educators in health sciences, including curricular design and tutoring. Participants included Professor Pablo Lara, president of the Conference of Deans of Medicine, and also former SEDEM president Professor Mila García-Barbero, professor Jesús Millán, and Professor Ricardo Rigual.

Teaching Models and Interprofessional Education

The congress also featured sessions on teaching models in clinical settings, addressing the integration of AI in diagnosis and updates to residency programs. An interprofessional education session presented an educational experience from the Faculty of Medicine of Navarra.

National Network for Medical Education Units

A key proposal from the congress was the creation of a national network of medical education units.

Congress proposed the creation of a national network of medical education units, which seeks to strengthen collaboration between institutions and improve educational quality nationwide.

Adapting to Current Challenges

Dr. Jesús Morán,honorary president of the Spanish Society of Specialized Health Training (SEFSE-AREDA),delivered the closing conference,emphasizing the need to adapt medical training to current complex times. The importance of addressing challenges such as population aging, chronicity, and the sustainability of health systems was highlighted.

The SEDEM 2024 Congress underscored the continuous evolution of medical education, integrating new technologies and methodologies to prepare future healthcare professionals.

New board of Directors Elected

During the company assembly, a new Board of Directors was elected:

• President: Joaquín García-stañ López
• Outgoing President: Ricardo Rigual
• Vice President: Beatriz Gal Iglesias
• Secretary: Leire Arbea Moreno
• Treasurer: José Vicente Lafuente Sánchez
• Vowels: Carmen Botella martínez, Eva Fairén Jiménez, Rocío González Soltero, Juan Ramón Lacalle Remigio, and Juan Antonio Vargas Nuñez