Medical student wellbeing - a consensus statement from Australia and New Zealand

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Student Wellbeing
• Public Health

Background:

• Medical schools globally face increasing concerns regarding student psychological, social, and physical wellbeing.
• Limited existing guidance necessitates a clear framework for addressing these issues in medical education.
• This consensus statement aims to bridge this gap by clarifying key concepts and providing actionable recommendations.

Discussion:

• Recommendations cover student selection, curriculum design, teaching and assessment methodologies, and the overall learning environment.
• Emphasis is placed on proactive and preventive educational initiatives to foster wellbeing.
• Staff development is crucial for effectively managing student wellbeing concerns.

Key Insights:

• Curricula should integrate peer support and appropriately challenging learning experiences.
• Assessment strategies must balance learning objectives with student wellbeing.
• Promoting adaptive stress responses prepares graduates for professional demands.

Outlook:

• A collaborative, integrated approach involving students, clinical services, and training bodies is essential.
• Further multi-institutional, longitudinal research is required to refine evidence-based practices in the region.
• Implementing these recommendations will foster safer, healthier learning cultures in medical schools.