Increasing the exposure to clinical experiences in undergraduate medical training through enrichment activities in primary care.

Abstract

Background: Increasing the number of UK medical graduates entering GP training is a national priority. However, GP practices' capacity to offer meaningful placements is challenging. Enrichment activities (EA) may provide an opportunity to increase capacity and exposure to primary care learning experiences.

Methods: An EA was any observational/interactive activity outside of core curricular experiences in primary care. GP practices provided options for EAs which were delivered to final year medical students in September 2023. Feedback surveys, comprising closed Likert-scale and open free-text questions, sought to determine student and provider views about the utility of EAs for learning experiences, satisfaction, and influence on career choices in GP.

Results: In total, 217 sessions (21.7 weeks) of EAs were undertaken. The most popular EA was working with GPs with an extended role. There was high satisfaction from providers and students. Of students, 77% felt welcomed by providers; 84.7% recommended EAs to others; 61.6% reported added value to their education. Most students were more likely to choose a future career in GP. Of providers, 95% reported value in enhancing student learning; 90% found preparation for EAs easy. Enabling themes for EAs were student engagement; insights into GP roles; exposure to unique clinical experiences. Barriers to EAs were organisational challenges by providers; more time for EAs; greater hands-on opportunities.

Conclusion: EAs provide opportunities to improve the variety and capacity of learning experiences in primary care with high levels of student and provider satisfaction. EAs may also promote more undergraduates to choose a career in GP.