A medical school accreditation board is considering changes that would remove requirements for medical students to learn about patients’ lived experiences and how factors such as income, neighborhood, and culture can influence health and medical decision-making. The proposal would alter existing curricular expectations that these areas be addressed during training. Proponents of maintaining the current approach argue that understanding patients’ day-to-day circumstances and social context supports high-quality care by helping future doctors interpret symptoms, communicate effectively, and consider barriers to treatment. Critics of removing such requirements contend the change could leave students with less formal preparation for working with diverse patient populations and navigating disparities that affect health outcomes. Live Science reports that the board’s action is being considered as part of its accreditation standards and related expectations for what medical schools must teach. The reporting centers on the potential shift in training emphasis and what that could mean for future physician competence in patient-centered care. The final decision and any timeline for implementation depend on the board’s process and outcomes.