At the conclusion of a medical degree, students have acquired the clinical knowledge and skills required to be competent and safe interns. Whilst students spend a lot of time in the wards observing clinicians, participating in ward rounds and learning procedural skills, the focus at these times is learning the clinical medicine, not how to be an effective junior doctor. At the UQRCS we have an additional focus on producing work-ready, patient-centred doctors.
The Intern Preparedness Program aims to develop skills necessary to do the work of an intern. This blended learning model includes eLearning resources and a face-to-face workshop. The eLearning component includes interactive case based online modules that are undertaken before the workshop. At the face-to-face workshop students participate in a mock ward round via video, complete the paperwork required from the ward round which is followed by small group discussions with current interns. Following completion of the program, students feel more confident in understanding the daily tasks and roles of an intern, the roles of the team members, time management and prioritisation of tasks, importance of effective clinical communications skills and knowing how and when to seek help.