Revitalising interest in general practice: innovative educational strategies to transform medical student perceptions in the UK.

Background: The UK faces a decline in medical students' interest in general practice (GP), crucial for its healthcare system. This trend endangers primary care sustainability and broader healthcare infrastructure, necessitating innovative educational approaches to improve perceptions of general practice.

Objective: To assess the impact of a pilot programme integrating innovative educational strategies on medical students' perceptions of general practice, aiming to highlight potential reforms for medical education and primary care's future in the UK.

Methods: A longitudinal pilot study with eighteen fifth-year medical students from Queen Mary University of London employed a diverse educational approach over thirty-six months. The programme encompassed mentorship, storytelling, community home visits, interactive patient cases, and GP speciality clinics, covering six GP practice domains. Data were collected through mid-placement and end-of-placement questionnaires to evaluate students' perceptions and interest in GP careers.

Results: The programme significantly improved students' perceptions of general practice. Mentorship and storytelling saw an 83% to 94% increase in appreciation for GP complexities and impact. Community home visits enhanced cultural sensitivity and holistic health views among 67% to 89% of participants. Interactive patient cases and GP speciality clinics notably advanced understanding of GP's multidisciplinary nature. Exposure to GP-led research and business initiatives heightened awareness of entrepreneurial and innovative opportunities within general practice.

Conclusions: Innovative educational strategies can substantially influence medical students' perceptions and interest in general practice. The study suggests that enriching medical education with real-world experiences, mentorship, and comprehensive general practice exposure can counter declining interest, showcasing general practice as a dynamic and fulfilling career.