Self-Advocates/Family Advocates as Medical Educators (SAME-FAME)

Collaborative Teamwork with Patients with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities and Family Caregivers

About the Class

Now in its 4th year, this virtual simulation training teaches interdisciplinary healthcare students basic information about patients with I/DD, family caregivers, and the systems that shape their lives and experiences across the lifespan. The course strengthens students’ skills in communication and collaboration with patients with I/DD and family caregivers as part of the health care team. The course also allows students to consider societal attitudes towards diverse people with I/DD and families and the impact of those attitudes on health care. 

Self-advocates and family advocates are key in planning, presenting, and evaluating the program.

Why Teach this Class

People with intellectual/developmental disabilities experience higher rates of illness and chronic health conditions such as diabetes and chronic pain (unrelated to their disabilities) than people without I/DD. Despite their high rates of illness and chronic health conditions, people with I/DD are less likely to receive preventive care, screenings, or be involved in public health promotion programs. 

Family caregivers, including parents, grandparents, and siblings, provide intensive life-long support and care across the lifespan for many adults with I/DD. However, many healthcare professionals have little training in integrating family caregivers of adults with I/DD as part of the healthcare team.

Funding

This virtual simulation training is offered for interdisciplinary health profession students at OU Health Sciences and OU campuses through a partnership with the OU Health Sciences Office of Interdisciplinary Programs.

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OUHSC/OU health profession students can enroll here:

For more information contact:

Ellen Bannister, Academic Programs Coordinator
Email: Ellen-Bannister@ouhsc.edu