Article Text
Abstract
Background The views of newly-qualified doctors regarding their readiness to care for PC patients have been investigated.1 By comparison, less is known about the opinions of undergraduate PC leads concerning their course provision, role and institutional support⇓.
Aims To investigate the views of undergraduate PC leads across all UK medical schools regarding teaching at their university.
Methods A 40 point web-based questionnaire was developed and sent to identified PC leads in all UK medical Schools. This study received ethical approval.
Results Results were obtained from all 30 UK medical schools. Nineteen respondents (63%) consider that PC training should be a separate course partially integrated within the curriculum, 10 (33%) fully integrated and 1(3%) would prefer a completely separate course.
A minority expressed concerns about PC training being recognised as important (5, 17%), support from university colleagues (5, 17%) dedicated teaching time (10, 33%) and funding (10. 33%).
Conclusion The views of PC leads are generally positive across UK medical school. It is suggested that negative opinions may be influenced by local organisational difficulties.