Introducing a New Doctor of Medicine (MD) Discovery Subject: 'Making Healthcare Work: From home to hospital and back again'

The redesigned Doctor of Medicine (MD) program enables students to tailor their own medical degree through Discovery subjects or faculty electives each year. Discovery subjects facilitate students’ exploration of a wide range of topics enabling them to focus on a specific area of interest or domain of clinical practice.

Eighteen students from across Victoria recently completed our newly launched, four-week Discovery subject called ‘Making Healthcare Work: From Home to Hospital and Back Again.’ The subject was specifically developed by the Department of General Practice and Primary Care for the 2nd year of the University of Melbourne medical degree.  This exciting subject delves into the realm of effective care pathways by examining both community and hospital-based systems of care, as well as exploring patient journeys through the health system and medical leadership.

The unique aspect of the subject lies in its highly interactive approach, engaging students through a dynamic blend of online learning, face-to-face sessions and invaluable placements in both hospital and primary care/community settings enabling students to gain firsthand clinical experience and opportunities to add to their skills and knowledge.

The response from the students on this learning experience has been overwhelmingly positive.  The Department is proud to witness the immense impact this subject is having on inspiring and shaping our future medical professionals. With ‘Making Healthcare Work,’ we are fostering a new generation of doctors who are not only adept in their clinical skills but also deeply committed to delivering compassionate and effective healthcare and striving to make a difference in the world of medicine.

This subject stands as a testament to the innovation and dedication of our Teaching and Learning Team, led by subject coordinator Dr Roisin Bhamjee with contributions from a diverse range of expert presenters, and the continuous support and partnership with our teaching clinics and hospital colleagues and of course our students and patients.

We look forward to refining and expanding the program in 2024.