Category: COVID

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COVID

Unique opportunities as an Assistant in Medicine during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Introduction

In Australia, the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic led to the formation of a new and unique role within the medical system, known as the Assistant in Medicine. The Assistant in Medicine program involved a group of selected final-year medical students joining the workforce as a government initiative to expand and reallocate hospital resources.

Summary

This reflection explores the unique opportunities in professional development as an Assistant in Medicine. Similar pre-internship models seen in New Zealand reported higher levels of competence and preparedness for internship compared to other final-year medical student placement models (92% in New Zealand, compared to 58% and 64% in the UK and Australia, respectively). These positive outcomes lead to an interesting question: could the Assistant in Medicine placement or a modified version be integrated into Australia’s final-year medical student curriculum?

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Feature Articles COVID

Social distancing and domestic violence: an exploration of the paradoxical impact of our public health response to COVID-19

Public health responses and policies implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic have had a substantial impact on the incidence of domestic violence globally. Whilst regulations are in place to protect lives and livelihoods, an evaluation of these reveal the paradoxes embedded within such actions and the effects on vulnerable individuals. A consideration into the catalysts which prompt such a rise in rates of interpersonal abuse due to increased psychosocial pressures are discussed. Furthermore, strategies which could be implemented on a legislative and social level to counter these issues are deliberated.

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Articles COVID COVID

Where in the world is the COVID-19 Vaccine?

The following article explores the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, the global race to develop a vaccine and the many challenges faced by researchers during this unprecedented time. With a focus on the eight most promising vaccine candidates currently in clinical evaluation around the world, the results from the early stages of human trials are discussed and the difficulties faced by those at the forefront are brought to light.

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Letters COVID COVID

Medicine in the age of COVID-19 considerations for the ongoing use and development of telehealth

COVID-19 has necessitated rapid adoption of telehealth. The evidence for telehealth, however, is inconclusive at best. Further studies are required before it sees more widespread use.   

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COVID COVID Letters

How COVID-19 has changed My Medical Experience

An expression piece on the personal impact of COVID-19 on my travel home (to Sri Lanka), personal life, studies and clinical placement.

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Categories
Letters COVID COVID

The impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of medical students in Australia

COVID-19 has left an overwhelming impact on medical students through the miscommunication of directives. It has resulted in many students feeling confused, dejected and exhausted.

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