Darren L Starmer1, Michael B Barton. 1. Department of Medical Oncology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia. darren.starmer@health.wa.gov.au
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Several studies have demonstrated concern over medical student exposure to cancer patients. Aim. To examine this concern and explore possible explanations. METHODS: Surveys of Australian and New Zealand interns in 1990 and 2001 were compared to surveys of University of Western Australia graduates from 2002-2006. RESULTS: Significant decreases in the number of interns who had examined cancer patients from 1990 to 2006 were evident, despite spending more time in oncology clinics. DISCUSSION: Advances in patient management has resulted in a shift to ambulatory care reducing patient accessibility. Medical schools must identify means to provide students with adequate patent exposure.
BACKGROUND: Several studies have demonstrated concern over medical student exposure to cancerpatients. Aim. To examine this concern and explore possible explanations. METHODS: Surveys of Australian and New Zealand interns in 1990 and 2001 were compared to surveys of University of Western Australia graduates from 2002-2006. RESULTS: Significant decreases in the number of interns who had examined cancerpatients from 1990 to 2006 were evident, despite spending more time in oncology clinics. DISCUSSION: Advances in patient management has resulted in a shift to ambulatory care reducing patient accessibility. Medical schools must identify means to provide students with adequate patent exposure.
Authors: Michael B Barton; Martin H Tattersall; Phyllis N Butow; Sally Crossing; Konrad Jamrozik; Bin Jalaludin; Christopher H Atkinson; Sharon E Miles Journal: Med J Aust Date: 2003-03-17 Impact factor: 7.738