GENERAL-PRACTICE AND MEDICAL-EDUCATION - WHAT DO MEDICAL-STUDENTS VALUE

An external evaluation [1] of the fourth-year medical student attachme nt in general practice at the University of Dundee was conducted to de termine the strengths and weaknesses of the teaching programme. Writte n evaluations of the attachment were obtained from 75 medical students . In addition, interviews were conducted with students and their tutor s and a focus group was arranged at the conclusion of the attachment. The overall evaluation by the students was positive. Students liked th e opportunity for the hands-on practice of medicine and the collegial reception from their tutors. Major criticisms related to the lack of a dequate opportunities for some students to see patients on their own a nd to learn practical procedures. Many students would like to have a l onger attachment. Problem areas which may provide valuable learning ex periences, such as dealing with 'difficult patients' need to be addres sed in advance and during the attachment. Other health professionals n eed to be adequately prepared for, and involved in, student teaching. The combination of independent practice experience in a friendly learn ing environment and guided reflection on practice are to be encouraged to ensure the further success of this teaching programme.