Keywords: Rural healthcare, doctor shortage, medical students, general practitioner supply, early career exposure, building education networks.

Background:

In the south of the German state of Baden-Württemberg, most rural regions have had little involvement in medical training, despite a critical and worsening doctor shortage, especially in general practice. The "Model Regions for Medical Training" programme seeks to engage students early, increasing their likelihood of working as rural doctors. The earlier they form a connection with a region, the greater the chance they will stay. According to the National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians, 80% of GPs remain where they completed their training.

Aim of the study:

The long-term aim is to encourage medical students to live and work in rural areas and to increase the attractiveness of medical training in these regions. It is hoped that this will have a knock-on effect, as good experiences during traineeship can provide students with valuable contacts for future training.

Methodology:

The Institute of General Practice in Freiburg has partnered with regions in southern Baden to create attractive training programmes. In a 10-day GP placement, students receive specialized teaching, leisure activities, and free accommodation, organized in cooperation with the district, general practitioners and local hospitals. This helps them explore the area, health care structures, and training opportunities.

Results:

Six out of nine regions in southern Baden-Württemberg have already joined the programme. Approximately 30% of the students choose a placement in these regions each semester. The average number of students in rural regions has increased by more than five times since project's start. The post-questionnaires show that the leisure activities and additional teaching were important factors in the decision to choose a region for their GP placement. The post-surveys also show a high level of satisfaction with the programme.

Conclusions:

Model regions for medical training can make GP placements in rural areas more attractive to medical students, thereby increasing interest in general practice and long-term employment in these regions.