Table 9 Theme making a difference in the community
From: The influences of background on beginning medical students’ perceptions of rural medical practice
Urban background | • “Rural doctors have a tough life, but their efforts will be forever a mark on an appreciative, under-privileged community.” |
• “Rural practice gives you immense satisfaction of knowing you are assisting underserved populations.” | |
• “Rural areas hold an untapped resource potential, providing rural doctors with the opportunity to contribute to the body of knowledge on rural, remote, tropical and indigenous issues.” | |
Rural background | • “Doctors are able to form close-knit networks with their communities and are often seen as a mentor, listener and even friend.” |
• “Working in a small community and developing strong relationships, they will feel they are making a substantial difference to the well-being of the town.” | |
• “Building of relationships within the community offers the moments that can make a difference to healthy outcomes for the doctor, their family and the community.” |