Firstly, this project examined the current state of disability awareness education available within the OHSU School of Medicine, including a systematic review of the curriculum as well as student perceptions of disability-related material and preparedness for clinical experiences. Secondly, a novel elective curriculum was created for preclinical OHSU MD students centering on the development of disability awareness and clinical skills. Finally, the new elective was conducted and evaluated for efficacy with pre- and post-elective student surveys. The results of this study show that taking an elective course on disability awareness has an appreciable positive effect on medical students? self-reported comfort, attitude, and clinical competency concerning patients with disabilities. Further studies are needed to assess whether positive changes will be seen in additional cohorts and determine if such effects could last well into a students? clinical career. Co-mentors: Eppelsheimer, Rhonda Horner-Johnson, Willi