We are proud to share the findings of a recent systematic integrative review that explores the effects of allied health student placements in primary healthcare settings, with a particular focus on older clients’ health outcomes and satisfaction with care.
The paper, Impact of allied health student placements for older clients’ health and wellbeing in primary healthcare settings: a systematic integrative review, was published in BMC Health Services Research.
Conducted using a five-step integrative review approach, the study synthesised evidence from eleven papers across diverse methodologies including mixed-methods, quantitative, qualitative, and cost–benefit analyses. The review identified four key themes: student integration in service delivery, older clients’ health outcomes, satisfaction with care, and mechanisms for achieving health and wellbeing outcomes.
The findings suggest that integrating allied health students into service delivery can provide valuable additional support for older clients, enhancing both care quality and client satisfaction. However, the review also highlights the need for further high-quality research to confirm these benefits.
This research aligns with UCRH’s commitment to health equity and innovation in rural health education. As a collaborative academic hub based in the Northern Rivers of NSW, UCRH delivers hands-on clinical placements for allied health students, preparing them to meet the needs of rural communities while contributing to improved health outcomes across Australia.
Importantly, this research is part of a broader aged care project we are undertaking with the support of community and academic partners including Whiddon Residential Care, Southern Cross University and TAFE NSW. We are grateful for their continued dedication to building knowledge that strengthens rural health services.
