I have probably already shared that Dr. Cai is my favorite
professor and clinician, so having a class taught by her is
refreshing. I am currently taking Herbal Treatment Strategies with
Dr. Cai. The class is small with only five students but it is nice
because everyone is able to ask questions or speak up if so
desired. I like the fact that we can choose what we would like to
learn. The topic each week is determined by the student. Dr. Cai
requires each student to give two presentations based on cases of
our patients, so in fact it is similar to grand rounds. We present
our patient and patient's case to the class.
So for instance, last week was my turn to present a case to the
class. My patient's chief complaint is hepatitis B. I prepared a
presentation for the class that included the patient's medical
history of the chief complaint, TCM 10 questions (for those of you
not familiar, 10 questions is one of our diagnostic methods, and we
also look at the patient's tongue and feel their radial pulse), TCM
diagnosis, treatment strategy, point prescription, and herbal
formula.
After presenting my case to the class, any other questions from
classmates are directed to the patient. Everyone will look at my
patient's tongue and take pulse. Then everyone states what they
feel the diagnosis is. (It's kind of like the TV show House because
every idea is written on the white board.) After narrowing
down to the correct diagnosis, a formula is selected based on the
patient's condition and TCM diagnosis.
Finally, the formula is modified based on the patient's
constitution. Herbs may added or removed and dosages modified. The
whole three hours is a true learning experience. Each class may be
different from trimester to trimester because each student chooses
the topic/illness for that week. So far we have discussed herpes,
psoriasis, hypertension, abdominal pain, insomnia, ADHD, IBS, and
hepatitis, and we still have five more weeks to learn even more.
After lecture the patient is needled for free as a token for their
time.
I hope I didn't confuse you, and if I did, shoot me an
email, I'd be glad to clarify any questions.