Globally, the need for medical professionals is increasing dramatically.
Projections in Dubai anticipate an approximate doubling in demand between 2020 and 2030. At our Middle East division, we are addressing this need with a clinical training programme, made possible through a Master Affiliation Agreement with MBRU.
‘We have an extensive array of facilities, services, and clients to provide medical students with comprehensive exposure,’ says Dr Paddy Kilian, Director of Academic Affairs. As an academic and clinical affiliate, Mediclinic provides the educational experience; this includes clinical supervision and assessment, as well as submission of student reports to MBRU. Training is developed with an eye on tomorrow to ensure relevant skills.
First- and third-year medical students visit our hospitals to gain insight into their future working environment while second-year students undertake research projects in collaboration with Mediclinic physicians. Students in the clinical phase – years 4, 5 and 6 – rotate through the Dubai-based facilities to hone their skills under the guidance of our physicians. The focus is on client contact: clerking, examining and presenting patients to clinical supervisors. Students gain clinical and medical knowledge through ward rounds, outpatient clinics, bedside teaching sessions and – for the surgical specialties – attendance and assistance in theatre under supervision.
In 2021, the inaugural intake began their final clinical year as student interns, assuming more responsibility for patient care and ward work, all under direct supervision. They will receive the MBBS degree upon successful completion. ‘We look forward with great anticipation to the graduation ceremony of our first cohort on 28 June 2022,’ says Paddy.
The collaboration with MBRU supports Mediclinic’s goals of research and innovation, alongside the delivery of high-quality, client-centred care by training the next generation of physicians. However, our involvement in medical education extends beyond MBRU: we have several MoUs with universities and colleges throughout the UAE to provide clinical placements for nursing, pharmacy, allied health professions and medical students in undergraduate and internship programmes.
In addition, the division is developing a learning academy focused on Nursing and General Healthcare Administration. This will provide school-leaving Emiratis with future-fit skills while offering career development and coaching programmes in the long term.
What the students say
"My skills have grown significantly over the last three years. I have learned how to interact with clients and their families, understood how to diagnose and treat a variety of medical problems, and practised important procedural skills. I feel privileged to be taught by the Mediclinic team."
Saad Syed
"The physicians really encourage me to undertake my own full assessment of new patients. They push me to do the consults myself and also allow ample time for discussion around cases to solidify my learning."
Aya Akhras
"The clinical training has equipped me with a great deal of knowledge and skills. Although I have enjoyed every department, Obstetrics and Gynaecology provided me with eye-opening experiences. I can now see this specialty as my focus going forward."
Farah Ennab