New research published in the Australian Journal of Rural Health shows that rural clinical placements in aged care settings can improve allied health students’ confidence and readiness to work.
Led by researchers from UCRH in partnership with Whiddon Residential Care, Southern Cross University, TAFE NSW and colleagues from the University of Sydney, the study explored how placements in residential aged care homes affected students’ self-efficacy – their belief in their ability to deliver care. Students from a range of universities took part in a five-week placement program designed and coordinated by UCRH.
The results were encouraging. Students reported a meaningful increase in confidence across key areas of clinical performance, including assessment, diagnosis, planning and implementation. Interviews with participants also revealed two strong themes: greater independence and work readiness, and a growing enthusiasm for working in interprofessional teams.
This study builds on what we already know: that rural clinical placements are a valuable way to support unmet healthcare needs in regional communities, while also helping students meet their learning goals and professional standards. UCRH and our academic partners have been working closely with aged care providers in Northern NSW to address the challenges of building a strong allied health workforce in rural settings.
What this study adds is beginning evidence that a well-supported placement in a rural aged care facility can make a real difference. It not only boosts student confidence and enthusiasm, but also increases access to allied health services for aged care residents.
This work was supported by the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing through the Rural Health Multidisciplinary Training Aged Care Expansion Grant.
