An immersive orientation programme to improve medical student integration and well-being

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Student Well-being
• Clinical Transition

Background:

• Medical students face challenges transitioning to regional clinical placements, often lacking work-life integration skills.
• The Beginning Education at Central Coast Hospitals (BEACCHES) program aims to ease this transition and enhance well-being through social connection.
• Evaluating BEACCHES identified its most valued and effective components for student support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To understand the most valued and effective components of the BEACCHES orientation program.
• To assess the impact of the BEACCHES program on medical student well-being and preparedness for regional clinical placements.

Main Methods:

• The BEACCHES program was evaluated using semi-structured surveys.
• A mixed-method analysis combined quantitative data (pre- and post-programme knowledge/confidence scores) with qualitative emergent themes.
• The study involved medical students commencing regional clinical placement at the Central Coast Medical School, Australia.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements in knowledge acquisition were observed across all domains, including psychological first aid, support services, and self-management.
• Students reported enhanced connectedness with peers and staff, crucial for well-being.
• Qualitative data underscored the importance of social interaction outside formal educational settings.

Conclusions:

• The BEACCHES program demonstrates potential in fostering medical student well-being via targeted orientation and enhanced social connectedness.
• Interactive, experiential programs are valuable for students beginning new regional clinical placements.
• Medical schools should integrate curricula that improve stress management and support student well-being, aligning with Australian Medical Association recommendations.