Impacts of territorialization on medical training: an experience report

Abstract

The National Curriculum Guidelines for undergraduate medical courses emphasize the need for broad and
critical training that prepares physicians to deal with the specificities of individuals and the territory. This study
reports on the territorialization of an urban settlement carried out by medical students in three stages: planning
and reconnaissance of the territory; study and application of forms; and identification and interviews with
key informants. At the end, the data were discussed in the classroom. The visits provided students with a
comprehensive understanding of the geographical, socioeconomic, cultural, and environmental characteristics
of the territory by promoting dialogue, active listening, and teamwork. The practice contributed to the
development of fundamental bioethical skills, with an emphasis on social justice in health and the ethics of
comprehensive care. Ethical aspects were observed in accordance with current regulations (consent, privacy,
and management of expectations). Territorialization enabled the identification of the vulnerabilities of this
population and stressed the need for concrete actions that consider the particularities of this community.