MEDICAL SCHOOLS
Teaching communication skills is a core component of a medical curriculum. However, it can be challenging to procure simulated patients from the adolescent population. This is especially so for cases addressing the highly prevalent ovulatory menstrual dysfunctions amongst female teenagers.
The My Vital Cycles® program, guided by the WHO’s Health Promoting School framework, addresses this gap by creating partnerships between medical schools and secondary schools. Through structured doctor-patient role-play, the program simultaneously strengthens medical students’ communication abilities and enhances adolescents’ interactive health literacy.
Prior to participating, medical students must complete professional development training and hold a current Working with Children Check.
EXPLORE A PARTNERSHIP WITH MY VITAL CYCLES® >
Curtin Medical School has strongly supported the research for My Vital Cycles.
The school awarded a 2020 Pilot Study Grant to trial the program, followed by a 2021 Seed Award to evaluate its benefits for medical student learning. Beginning in 2026, My Vital Cycles® will serve as a formal community partnership pathway for first year MBBS students. Participation in the program will constitute mandatory fieldwork, offering students the opportunity to develop essential communication skills and advocate for women’s health.
