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Jul 2, 2014Article Details
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Student doctors (umfundi wobugqirha): The role of student-run free clinics in medical education in Cape Town, South Africa
Abstract
Objective. To determine the role SHAWCO clinics play in medical education.
Methods. A mixed-methods study with a predominantly quantitative questionnaire utilising dichotomised Likert scales was performed with 110
clinic volunteers. The Likert scales were converted to population proportions for quantitative analysis. Qualitative data obtained from participants’ comments were analysed thematically. Discussion. SHAWCO clinics provide a controlled environment in which to practise skills acquired in medical school. Over 98% of students attend clinics to increase their clinical exposure. Medical conditions that students encounter are primary care problems, often neglected at tertiary level teaching institutions. The clinics achieve what the formal curriculum struggles to do: humanise medical treatment, allowing one to better understand the socio-economic background of patients.
Conclusion. SHAWCO is best suited in its current role of hands-on, community-based learning to augment the training provided in the formal
medical curriculum.
