LEAPS of faith-exploring development and implementation of a longitudinal curriculum focusing on mental health, leadership, altruism, ethics, and EDI, Professional Identity Formation for medical and dental students

Abstract

In the ever-changing healthcare scenery of Pakistan, demands on health professionals extend far beyond clinical proficiency. These include ethical integrity, effective leadership, care for mental well-being, and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion. The LEAPS (Leadership, Ethics, Altruism, Professionalism/Professional Identity, and Study Skills/Patient Safety) module is a pioneering educational framework designed for MBBS and BDS students in Pakistan. Structured in a longitudinal fashion, spanning four years, LEAPS boasts of culturally relevant best practices, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and resilience-building strategies to nurture empathetic, culturally competent, and resilient healthcare practitioners. This article outlines the inception, innovative structure, and transformative impact of the LEAPS curriculum.