Quaternary prevention, curricular reform and medical education

Abstract

From a critical perspective that tackles the problem of overmedicalization, quaternary prevention (P4) emerged as an innovative concept, proposing alternatives to prevent iatrogenic events and to optimize healthcare costs. This essay provides a historical-conceptual review of P4 and of medical education models, aiming to understand how P4 can become a strategic element to remodel medical education. The article addresses conceptual aspects of P4, approaches medical education from a historical perspective, and shows the dynamic interconnections between P4, health practices and medical education. Finally, it explains the reasons why P4 can become a central element of medical education.