June 30, 2013
Te Ora research helps future students
Two Māori medical students granted summer studentships by the Royal Australasian College of Physicians the Māori Medical Practitioners Association Te Ora and presented their research to the association’s annual conference over the weekend.
Cara Lucas looked at why Māori doctors choose their particular path and looked at the challenges they face.
Hugh McHugh reviewed the literature on whether cultural competence in physicians improves patient outcomes.
Dr Leo Buchanan, the chair of the RACP’s Māori health committee, says both pieces of work will contribute to a further understanding of the Māori workforce.
He says Mr McHugh’s research identified important gaps in current understanding of cultural and clinical competence and will lead to further research.
Ms Lucas’s project is being used by Te Ora to develop resources to help Māori medical students.
Applications from Māori medical students are now being sought for next summer’s studentships, which are worth $5000 each.
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