A new study led by UCRH researcher Dr Jodie Bailie explores how extreme weather events affect medical students on rural placements, and what medical schools can do to better support them.
The research focused on 43 third-year medical students placed in regional Australia through UCRH during the devastating 2022 floods. Students shared how the disaster disrupted their education and personal lives, with many losing access to essentials like food, water and shelter, and some forced to evacuate or deal with property damage.
Beyond the immediate challenges, students reflected on their health needs, the importance of self-care, and their sense of belonging in the community. The experience also deepened their understanding of social vulnerability and health inequity, prompting some to rethink the kind of doctor they want to become.
The study calls on medical schools to strengthen support systems and disaster preparedness for students and clinicians alike, especially as climate change drives more frequent and severe events.
This research adds to UCRH’s commitment to improving rural health outcomes through evidence-based insights and student-centred education.
