Melbourne University UTA Program

In late 2012 the Melbourne University Medical Unit approached MIPS seeking sponsorship of an innovative men’s health training initiative - the Urological Teaching Associate (UTA) Program - as part of MIPS' risk education strategy.

The UTA Program provides a patient centric approach to intimate physical examinations required in men’s health assessment beyond what is normally taught to medical students. 

MIPS agreed to provide part sponsorship in 2013 anticipating this improved additional clinical education in respect to men’s health had the potential to mitigate future risk to members and patients.   

What is the UTA program?

The Urological Teaching Associate (UTA) program prepares students to be competent in performing a men's health examination. It is hoped that by training students how to perform these examinations competently and confidently they will be better prepared and better able to improve the health of their male patients. 

The UTA program enables participants to: 

• Gain confidence in both the fine technical skills and the sensitive communication skills required to undertake sensitive male examinations 
• Learn to perform hernia, scrotal and rectal examinations in a non-threatening environment with immediate feedback and guidance from a live experienced ‘patient’ 
• Maximise learning via a small group setting and standardised method of instruction

Male trainers are trained to teach inguinal hernia, scrotal and prostate (including rectal) examinations to medical students. They teach whilst they are being physically examined and give students feedback on the students' technical and communication skills.

Review of 2013 program

Outcomes of the program have been very positive and rewarding. In summary: 

• UTA is taught in the second year curriculum, the first clinical year and as part of the surgical rotation  
• 328 students were taught in five metro clinical schools and in two rural locations and the program is expanding to other facilities  
• Even though 2/3 of students had previously not performed these types of examinations the student evaluations showed a positive improvement in student confidence, increasing knowledge of both technical and communication skills and the need for informed consent ; all extremely positive risk education lessons. 
• This pilot program has so far received an overwhelmingly positive response from students who appreciate the opportunity to learn these examination skills in a supportive and encouraging environment with a 'patient' who has the skills and experience to guide them through these examinations and who can give constructive feedback in a safe and professional setting.

The UTA Program sponsorship is continuing for 2014.

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