Clinical teaching at the University of St Andrews

The three year BSc (Hons) Medicine course has developed significantly over recent years to become a fully integrated and clinically orientated, systems based course. Dr Rebecca Walmsley is the BSc Course Director and Clinical Lead, and is herself a practising GP in Fife.

Fundamental topics are introduced, with an emphasis on inter-relationships between the pre-clinical sciences.  In semester 2, students learn about the musculoskeletal system  and begin to develop clinical communication and examination skills. Students meet people chronic health conditions and in the second half of the year attend their first community based placement.

In year 2, students work through the cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems and have regular placements in primary and secondary care settings within NHS Fife. Students encounter real patients, hear their stories, and start to develop their clinical skills. Clinical tutors at each of these sites run the day for students – this is an exciting way to be actively involved in students’ learning with the opportunity to shape the running of the placement day.

In year 3 students have five full day clinical sessions. The focus is shifted to secondary care with various placements at hospitals in Fife. The focus is on integrating, refining and practising communication and clinical skills . Clinical tutors at each of these sites assist the students in development of these skills during an important time of their studies before they transition to our partner medical schools.

Further information about the BSc course.

The ScotGEM program is offered in partnership with the University of Dundee and the University of the Highlands and Islands. This innovative four-year programme aims to develop generalist practitioners to meet the ongoing needs of NHS Scotland with a focus on rural medicine. Dr Lysa Owen is the Clinical Interaction Course Lead for the program and Dr Robert Scully the lead Generalist Clinical Mentor.

In years 1 and 2, the ScotGEM program is delivered by Generalist Clinical Mentors (GCMs). These innovative posts combine teaching in the medical school and teaching in practice, based in the surgery where that GP undertakes clinical sessions. Some teaching is also provided by in house staff based within the medical school.

Further information about the ScotGEM course.

We are always delighted to hear from clinicians who are interested in the training of our medical students. To find out more information about joining our team of clinical tutors please complete the form below.