Bring them and (maybe) they'll come back

In the face of a national shortage of rural physicians, an Alberta health region has launched a pilot project that offers medical students 8 to 12 weeks of field work that organizers hope will eventually lure them back to the area.

The program, launched this summer by the Aspen Regional Health Authority, gives students a chance to experience rural practice. The goal is to hire 2 students annually, with remuneration depending on the amount of time spent in the region.

I was the only student hired the first year; I was based in Westlock but travelled throughout the region. I spent most of the time with patients, taking histories and helping professionals such as physical therapists in a variety of activities. This meant I was able to interact with patients as they encountered the various disciplines. I also participated in CME events.

The project, aimed at first- or second-year medical students, follows a recommendation from the College of Family Physicians of Canada to provide earlier and more extensive rural medicine experience for undergraduates (see J Rural Health 2000;16[3]:280-7; www .nrharural.org/pagefile/rh.html).

Organizers hope the program will let the region to showcase its resources, such as telehealth and visiting-specialist programs. Students will also meet local physicians, and it is hoped this interaction will help them overcome some of their concerns about physician well-being in rural areas. Those interested can contact Mary Ellen Hoogers, aspen11@aspenrha.ab.ca.