What factors in rural and remote extended clinical placements may contribute to preparedness for practice, from the perspective of students and clinicians

Michele Daly, David Perkins, Koshila Kumar, Chris Roberts, Malcolm Moore

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    48 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    Background: Community-based rural education opportunities have expanded in Australia, attracting more medical students to placements in rural and remote settings. Aim: To identify the factors in an integrated, community-engaged rural placement that may contribute to preparedness for practice (P4P) from the perspective of students and clinicians. Method: Forty-two semi-structured interviews with medical students, supervisors and clinicians analysed thematically. Results: Opportunities for clinical learning, personal and professional development and cultural awareness were reported by students and clinicians as key factors that contribute to P4P. Potential barriers in rural and remote settings included geographical and academic isolation, perceived educational risk and differing degrees of program engagement. Conclusions: A longitudinal clinical placement in a rural setting may enable development of enhanced competencies leading to P4P. A rural setting can provide a unique experience through hands-on learning, enhanced personal and professional development opportunities and observation of the cultural and contextual impact on health.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)900-907
    Number of pages8
    JournalMedical Teacher
    Volume35
    Issue number11
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - Nov 2013

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