DIGITALWHAT DO MEDICAL STUDENTS THINK ABOUT DIGITAL HEALTH EDUCATION AND TRAINING? INTEGRATING DIGITAL HEALTH TEACHING INTO THE MEDICAL CURRICULUM IN AUSTRALIA
University Of Queensland (AUSTRALIA)
About this paper:
Appears in: ICERI2023 Proceedings
Publication year: 2023
Page: 280 (abstract only)
ISBN: 978-84-09-55942-8
ISSN: 2340-1095
doi: 10.21125/iceri.2023.0114
Publication year: 2023
Page: 280 (abstract only)
ISBN: 978-84-09-55942-8
ISSN: 2340-1095
doi: 10.21125/iceri.2023.0114
Conference name: 16th annual International Conference of Education, Research and Innovation
Dates: 13-15 November, 2023
Location: Seville, Spain
Dates: 13-15 November, 2023
Location: Seville, Spain
Abstract:
Background:The use of digital health in medical practice has brought many changes in the traditional practices. It is argued that for medical practitioners to operate in the digitally enabled new environment, they would require specific knowledge, skill, and competencies relating to the aspects of digital health. However, very few medical programs in Australian and globally currently teach digital health within their regular curriculum. This study aimed to explore medical students’ perceptions and expectations of digital health education and training (E&T).
Methods:
An online survey and focus groups were used to collect information about medical students’ perceptions and expectations relating to digital health and E&T within the medical program (MD) at the University of Queensland.
Results:
Sixty-three students took part in the survey and 17 students involved in four focus groups. The majority of participants had no formal E&T in digital health. Many were interested in learning about digital health as part of their medical program. Primarily, knowledge and practice related factors have motivated students to learn digital health. The analysis of focus groups data identified two (2) superordinate themes. 1) Relevance of digital health for modern medical practice 2) Expectations relating to digital health education and training.
Conclusions:
Students agreed that digital health is an important emerging discipline that should be taught as part of their regular curriculum. Aspects such as new methods of medical service delivery (telehealth), the use of medical information systems (EHR/EMR), Apps and remote monitoring systems and decision support systems were indicated as important aspect that students would want to learn more about. While integrating digital health in current medical practice, education and training must be considered as a key area for enabling practitioners to use such tools proficiently.