S!H!S!P! We teach medical students about the birds and the bees!!

That's right- There's a cheer (Thanks to the co-coordinator, Perry Tsai!)  because it's just that exciting. 

It is always exciting when I know on Monday what I'm going to be writing about on Wednesday because something or someone so kick-ass has come across my path.  This week I was privileged to take part in a leadership meeting of the American Medical Student Association's (AMSA) Sexual Health Scholars Program (SHSP).  Pumpernickle and Donkey of the ScrewSmart triumvirate have taken on the role of facilitator coordinator for this program which takes medical students from ALL over the world and leads them through a year long, in depth training about sexuality issues. 

This program was started by 2 bad-ass, smart-as-shit, fantastic women- Shannon O'Hern and Rebecca Bak.  I didn't really understand the context of how amazing it was that they started this incredible program out of a simple idea and dream- until I heard the story at our meeting on Monday.  They saw that there is a huge lack of sexuality education in medical schools and wanted to do something about it as current med students themselves.  So they made a dream a reality and birthed (through force of effort, and with unbelievable amounts of energy) an entire national program which addressed this dire need. 

Just a little FYI- more people go to medical providers about sexuality issues than they do to sexuality professionals.  Makes sense to me- most people see a doctor, but not that many people know that there are professionals who focus specifically on sexuality issues.  Also! About 1/3 of all adults will experience sexual problems...so that's A LOT of people going to their doctors with questions about sex.  But! Most medical students receive less than 10 hours of training in sexuality related issues while in medical school...Yikes!!

So hopefully I've (in an abridged form) established that this program is VERY needed and VERY important.  But...let me tell you why I (as a sex-nerd) love this program soooo much.  Instead of just giving a survey course about the breadth and depth of different sexuality identities and behaviors that exist out there in the world- this program allows participants to practice clinical skills they will use with their patients.  These skills help them to provide care to their patients that is individually geared, respectful of diversity, free of judgement, and non-assumptive.  

Imagine walking into your doctor's office and knowing that regardless of your sexual orientation, gender identity, or sexual behavior practices or preferences- you will be treated by someone who is respectful and knowledgable about these issues.  You could ask questions, receive educational resources, and leave feeling prepared to take good care of yourself. 

Want that?  We here at ScrewSmart do too- That's why we're working to support and improve the program this year.  Are you a medical student?  Apply!!  Know someone that is- get them involved!

Just wanna show some love?  Comment below!

That's all from this weary but excited Screw.

Love!

Donkey