Independent Student Analysis (ISA)
The Independent Student Analysis (ISA) is a critical component of the LCME accreditation process and is required by the LCME to be developed and conducted by medical students, independent of faculty and administration. The ISA gathers confidential feedback on key aspects of the medical education program, including curriculum, student services, learning environment, and institutional support.
The findings from the ISA help identify strengths and opportunities for improvement, directly informing both the school’s accreditation self-study and its continuous quality improvement (CQI) efforts. By elevating student perspectives, the ISA plays a vital role in shaping a responsive and supportive learning environment at the Thomas Frist College of Medicine.
The LCME emphasizes that the ISA is a student-led initiative and must be free from administrative or faculty oversight, although institutional support may be provided if requested by the student team.
The student team should:
Develop the Survey Instrument
Design a comprehensive survey that aligns with LCME accreditation standards and addresses areas such as the curriculum, learning environment, student services, wellness, and overall satisfaction.
Administer the Survey
Distribute the survey to the full student body in a manner that ensures confidentiality and maximizes participation (typically aiming for at least 70% response rate per LCME guidance).
Analyze Survey Data
Compile and analyze quantitative and qualitative responses to identify trends, strengths, and areas in need of improvement.
Draft the ISA Report
Create a detailed written report summarizing survey findings, including methodology, key themes, data tables, and conclusions. The report must reflect student interpretation of the data.
Ensure Independence
Maintain independence from faculty and administration throughout the entire process to preserve the integrity and objectivity of the analysis.
Submit the Report for Accreditation
Share the final ISA report with the LCME Secretariat, the school's Self-Study Task Force, and other relevant accreditation stakeholders as part of the required documentation.
Student ISA Team 2025
Jerry Mi
Alexander Coker
Neeku Misaghian
Nora Apt
Kamini Kabilan
Aakanksha Khadye
Contact Us
Thomas F. Frist, Jr. College of Medicine
1900 Belmont Boulevard
Nashville, TN 37212
Phone: 615.460.6191