EDUCATION LEADS' VIEWS ABOUT UNDERGRADUATE PALLIATIVE CARE (PC) TEACHING IN THEIR MEDICAL SCHOOL: A UK WIDE SURVEY. Issue Volume 4: Issue (2014)Supplement 1 (1st March 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Walker, Steven; Gibbins, Jane; Barclay, Stephen; Barnett, Mandy; Adams, Astrid; Paes, Paul; Lodge, Philip; Chandratilake, Madawa; Wee, Bee
• Is Part Of: BMJ supportive & palliative care. Volume 4: Issue (2014)Supplement 1
• Page Start: A35
• Page End: A36
• Publication Date: 2014-03-01
• Subjects: Palliative treatment -- Periodicals; Terminal care -- Periodicals; 616.029
• DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2014-000654.98
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2045-435X

Abstract

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 . 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.