Thursday, March 16, 2023
Providing a positive experience for incoming medical students can help address the shortage of medical practitioners in rural areas. Learn about welcome packages, networking opportunities, cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and mentorship programs that can help create a lasting impression on students.
Addressing the shortage of medical practitioners in rural areas can be challenging. However, by providing a memorable experience for incoming medical students who are there for clinical short-term experiences, you can potentially encourage them to return and open a practice in the area.
In this blog post, we'll share five tips on how to create a positive and lasting impression on incoming medical students in rural areas.
1. Welcome Packages and a welcoming landlord: A Great First Impression
- Creating a welcome package for incoming medical students is a great way to make a positive first impression. The package can include information about the community, local events, and recommendations for things to do in the area. Consider including a personalized welcome letter, maps of the area, and local snacks or gifts. Baking cookies? Maybe popping by and drooping off a dozen might make someone's day after an all nighter on call!
- Local theatre? Offer free tickets. Parking passes to local parks?
- Will your tenant be receiving courier packages such as "food kits" such as Hello Fresh ) ? Perhaps offering to accept their "delivery" once a week to your address and dropping it off at a convenient time or offering to put it in their fridge can make a HUGE difference to someone working very long days and nights! No more food kits sitting on porches perishing, or feeding the local wildlife.
- Add a notebook for essential info : Landlord coordinates/property manager, emergency numbers, maintenance emergency number, 911 address for fire dept, poison control, library, bank, ATM, transportation, wifi password, utiltity company, neighbours names and address, local radio and tv stations.
- Encourage tenants to add to the notebook journal with comments on their stay, adding highlights, hints and suggestion.
2. Networking Opportunities: Connecting with Local Medical Professionals
- Connecting incoming medical students with local medical professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers, can help them make valuable connections and learn about potential job opportunities in the area. Consider hosting networking events or introducing students to local medical professionals.
- Community activities? Add the info: pilates, yoga, pickleball, tennis, hiking, cycle groups, running groups, painting groups, knitting, book clubs, quilters?
3. Cultural Experiences: Immersing Students in the Local Community
- Organizing cultural experiences, such as visits to museums, historical sites, and cultural events, can help incoming medical students learn about the local community and appreciate its unique qualities. Consider providing information on local festivals or events and offering tours of the area.
4. Outdoor Activities: Showcasing the Natural Beauty of the Area
- Organizing outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, or camping, can help incoming medical students appreciate the beauty and natural surroundings of the area. Consider offering guided tours or providing information on local trails and outdoor recreational opportunities.
- Community activities? Add the info: pilates, yoga, pickleball, tennis, hiking, cycle groups, running groups, painting groups, knitting, book clubs, quilters?
- Community Centre activities, flea markets, breakfast clubs, markets
5. Mentorship Programs: Offering Guidance and Support
- Connecting incoming medical students with a mentor who is familiar with the area can offer guidance and support during their stay. Mentors can provide information on local healthcare facilities, help students navigate their new surroundings, and offer career advice.
Conclusion:
By providing a welcoming and supportive environment for incoming medical students in rural areas, you can help address the shortage of medical practitioners in these regions. Implementing welcome packages, networking opportunities, cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and mentorship programs can help create a positive and lasting impression on students. By doing so, you may encourage them to return and open a practice in the area, which can benefit the local community in countless ways.
Think "Community Ambassador Landlord" Show incoming trainees why YOU love living in the area! This is how you can make a difference.
