Table 6.

Challenges of Developing and Implementing Student-Led Clinics

For the Learner

For the Academic Institution

Limited diversity in range of conditions seen: high number of patients with the same problem. Complexity of chronic conditions. Interpersonal challenges, co-operation, and partnership. Differences and misunderstandings in perceptions about what students should do and learn. The volume and complexity of knowledge and skills to be acquired during interprofessional teamwork can leave a learner feeling uncertain. Logistics, such as “getting up in the morning to information overload”.31 (p85) Arranging clinical contacts.

Do not generate all placements required. Patient supply (except where developed in response to community need). Tension between curriculum requirements, students’ learning needs and patient needs. Timetabling. Continuity of care: student availability to run clinics throughout the year. Operating as a healthcare provider and accountability. Potentially in direct competition with other health providers. Staffing: clinic management not recognised in academic workloads.