ID-5184 Wonca Abstracts supplement L-Z 13-10-23 - Flipbook - Page 25
WONCA 2023 Supplement 2: WONCA 2023 abstracts (L–Z)
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Reinvigorating general practice promotion and training for
the future
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Dr Andrew Leech2, Dr Ramya Raman2
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The Garden Family Medical Clinic, 2Notre Dame University Fremantle, 3RACGP (WA)
The future of general practice in Australia is at a crossroad.
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There is noticeable shift in the interest of medical students not wanting to pursue general practice as
a specialisation. This is further compounded by the reduction in trainee doctors following a career in
medicine altogether due to burnout and bullying. The Medical Training Survey reported that of those
who had experienced bullying, 70% did not report it, concerned of repercussions.
General practice is the cornerstone of the Australian health system. It is still viewed as a ‘lesser
speciality’ associated with ‘lower status’ by many junior doctors, despite the complex and cognitively
challenging skillset required, especially in rural and remote practice.
Health departments and government recognise GP training as a priority speciality training pathway.
Despite this, the numbers of medical graduates choosing a general practice specialty pathway
are grossly insufficient.4 We need to consider novel and practical ways to improve the GP training
experience and enhance the perception of general practice.
Attracting medical students and junior doctors to general practice is a crucial step in developing a
stronger workforce. The benefits of a meaningful clinical placement are well documented, with positive
outcomes from the perspectives of educators and students. Additionally, research shows when
students have the responsibility in the clinical encounter (ie seeing patients independently in general
practice placements), their motivation and drive is enhanced, which improves their interest in
the speciality.
Medical students require immersive experiences in general practice, where they not only experience
the variety and work involved, but are also actively involved in clinical encounter. This involvement
reduces the student’s perception as a burden in the clinical setting. A shift in our thinking and teaching
is essential for the growth of general practice in Australia.
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