A recent study involving UCRH and University of Sydney researchers has focused on factors that can positively influence students’ knowledge of and appreciation for the First Nations peoples’ culture, impacts of colonisation and other determinants of health.
The research is outlined in a paper, Shaping competencies for culturally safe practice among medical students, published in The Clinical Teacher (The Association for the Study of Medical Education).
After surveying medical students pre- and post-cultural immersion, the study highlights the benefits of cultural immersion. Surveys from 260 first-year medical students in 2020 and 323 students in 2021 showed significant improvements in their knowledge and confidence in working with Indigenous populations. Students shared that their experiences varied from initially reluctant to deeply engaged and transformative.
The study underscores the value of these experiences, especially when co-designed with the community. These experiences are essential in preparing future healthcare professionals to provide culturally safe care for Indigenous patients.
