Canadian physicians report feeling unprepared regarding the diagnosis and treatment
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). This thesis investigates the knowledge that future
healthcare practitioners gain during their time at the Northern Ontario School of Medicine
(NOSM), as well as the advice they would give to women regarding the use of alcohol during
pregnancy.
This two-phased mixed methods study included two surveys (N=24), and a semistructured
interview (N=8). Results indicate that NOSM students are unaware of the specifics of
FASD and are not confident in their knowledge on the subject. Barriers to learning were
identified as: (1) inconsistencies between student educational experiences; and (2) the
overwhelming nature of medical education. Solutions involving enhanced opportunity for
exposure, supporting experience through formal curriculum, and attaining knowledge from
different sources are proposed. Through improving medical education, future physicians will be
better prepared to care for individuals with FASD, thereby improving support for these
individuals.
