Dr. Leire Arbea, professor of the School of Medicine and oncologist of the Clínica Universidad de Navarra, has received the award for Best internship professor 2018. The award, awarded by the Chair de Education Médica de la Fundación Lilly-Universidad Complutense de Madrid, publicly recognizes the merits of the best practices employed in the training of future physicians and whose nominations are submitted by the students themselves.

The Pamplona professor assures that "this award promotes the progress of the medical Education in our country with good, innovative and effective teaching projects, while recognizing the work of several years and of many colleagues who have designed different workshops". She also points out that the satisfaction is twofold, as it is a recognition granted by the students, "since they are the protagonists of learning and feeling that our work 'touches' them is an impulse to continue along this path".

Working in a real scenario and in a team

One of the latest projects led by Dr. Leire Arbea reproduces a hospital ward with simulated patients and well thought out scenarios aimed at provoking reflection on the importance of patient engagement. These workshops are part of the Medical Identityproject , which is part of the new teaching methodologies promoted by the University within the Horizon 2020 Strategic Plan. Its goal is to provide medical students with personal tools to develop in a solid and reflective way a human professional identity.

Professor Arbea explains that "the project covers essential aspects such as compassion and empathy, communication, integrity, skill professional, work teamwork and commitment to the patient in a scenario in which a good interprofessional work is essential". Hence, it was carried out on a hospitalization floor of the Clínica Universidad de Navarra and was attended by partnership doctors and staff specialized nurses.

This interdisciplinary approach in patient care provides value and knowledge, which avoids losing important information, allows professionals to be more flexible and financial aid to solve complex problems. "Working in a real scenario, in a team and from day-to-day situations of our profession is core topic for students to learn and exercise the essential aspects that will define their future identity as health professionals."