EDUCATION LEADS' VIEWS ABOUT UNDERGRADUATE PALLIATIVE CARE (PC) TEACHING IN THEIR MEDICAL SCHOOL: A UK WIDE SURVEY

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The views of newly-qualified doctors regarding their readiness to care for PC patients have been investigated.(1) By comparison, less is known about the opinions of undergraduate PC leads concerning their course provision, role and institutional support. Strongly agree/agreeNo strong view/neutralDisagree/strongly disagreeFulfils GMC requirements19 (63%)9 (30%)2 (7%)Prepares students well for PC in Foundation Year 118 (60%)3 (10%)9 (30%)Overall delivers quality PC training22* (76%)2* (7%)5* (17%)Varies depending on where students are sent15 (50%)8 (27%)7 (23%)Is delivered by enthusiastic colleagues27 (90%)3 (10%)Is limited by availability of local services20 (67%)4 (13%)6 (20%)Enables each student to visit a hospice and see doctors care for the dying17 (57%)3 (10%)10 (33%)Is highly-rated by students26 (87%)4 (13%)My role in PC training is satisfying27 (90%)3 (10%)*29 responses AIMS: To investigate the views of undergraduate PC leads across all UK medical schools regarding teaching at their university. METHODS: A 40 point web-based questionnaire was developed and sent to identified PC leads in all UK medical Schools. This study received ethical approval. RESULTS: Results were obtained from all 30 UK medical schools. Nineteen respondents (63%) consider that PC training should be a separate course partially integrated within the curriculum, 10 (33%) fully integrated and 1(3%) would prefer a completely separate course. A minority expressed concerns about PC training being recognised as important (5, 17%), support from university colleagues (5, 17%) dedicated teaching time (10, 33%) and funding (10. 33%). CONCLUSION: The views of PC leads are generally positive across UK medical school. It is suggested that negative opinions may be influenced by local organisational difficulties.