Community theme works for revamped program
Simulation: Pam Harvey (left) discusses mobility aids with a student during an occupational therapy session, and (right) a student practices wound dressing in the Clinical Skills and Simulation Centre.
This year’s revamped Year 2 program in Bendigo involved a mix of new and tried educational experiences.
“With a cohort of 39 students, activities were often split into three so that smaller groups could get to know each other,” said Lecturer Pam Harvey.
“This year, students travelled to either Rochester, Dingee or Lockington to visit a working dairy farm and look at health services in the town.
“These communities embraced our students, giving their time and knowledge generously,” she said, adding “community involvement was a theme of our program.”
Pam said 13 GP patients had participated in the program’s simulated general practice consultation, and volunteered to return ‘any time’.
“They willingly talked to students about their health issues, offering students insight into how people manage their daily lives while coping with often complex issues.
“Students were also able to discuss illness and its effects with two people living in the community who have had strokes.
“We called these sessions ‘Stories of Recovery’ to highlight the role that rehabilitation and community care have for people adjusting to disability,” said Pam.
The Year 2 program also saw students spend time in local hospitals with senior students, and in the skills lab with clinical educators.
“The best outcome was that nearly half of the students wanted to know how they could apply for a rural placement in Year 3,” said Pam.
“My thanks to the hard working Bendigo Year 2 team for their organisation, patience and ingenuity.”