Advanced Hospital Corps School Curriculum Relevance and Training Emphasis: Perceptions from the Fleet

摘要

This study was a follow-up and partial replication of a prior survey of Advanced Hospital Corps School instructors and students that examined the relevance and adequacy of the Independent Duty Corpsman (IDC) curriculum. In this study, however, data from a sample of experienced shipboard IDCs were analyzed. The objectives of the present study were a) to appraise the perceived relevance of IDC curriculum topic areas, b) to evaluate perceived classroom and practical/lab training emphasis for meeting fleet requirements, and c) to assess differences in curriculum relevance and training emphasis between Atlantic and Pacific fleets, and between surface ships and submarines. The findings provide support for the overall relevance of the IDC curriculum. However, differences were found between IDCs aboard surface ships and submarines in several curriculum areas. These results suggests that additional tailoring of te IDC curriculum, dependent on assigned ship-type, may be warranted. With regard to perceptions of training emphasis in topical areas pertaining to shipboard Medical Department Management, Dental fundamentals, and MEDEVAC Procedures.