[A] cohort of medical students have completed primary care placements in West Cumbria, as part of a degree programme designed to improve healthcare in the region.
Five second-year international students from the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)’s Bachelor Medicine Bachelor Surgery (MBBS) worked at GP practices, as part of the University’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with local healthcare providers and developing the delivery of services.
The students previously studied in Cumbria on a foundation programme, at the West Cumberland Medical Education Centre (WCMEC) on UCLan’s Westlakes Campus.
Placements were undertaken at the Mansion House Surgery, the Seascale Health Centre and the Castlegate and Derwent Surgery, where students observed healthcare professionals carrying out their daily duties.
Hugo Labat completed his placement at the Mansion House Surgery. He said: “It’s one thing to learn what is needed to be a medical professional, but something entirely different to see it right before you. Where other medical students typically meet their first patients in their third year, we were shadowing doctors and nurses in a general practice before our first year had even passed, gaining unforgettable experience along the way.
“I look forward to my second placement in the following weeks after exams, and hope for just as many memorable learning opportunities.”
Professor Cathy Jackson, Executive Dean and Head of the UCLan School of Medicine, said: “The placements mark the start of our medical students truly becoming part of the healthcare framework in West Cumbria. Having previously studied in the area on the foundation programme, they all really enjoyed the opportunity to return and get real-world experience, gaining valuable insights and meeting members of the local community.”
UCLan’s School of Medicine offers a range of clinical programmes including an integrated Masters of Physician Associate Studies to produce physician associates, in addition to postgraduate programmes aimed at helping practitioners develop specialist skills and knowledge.
