Engaging With The Community To Widen Participation Of Indigenous Students In Dentistry And Medicine

Abstract

Background Indigenous students are under-represented in Medicine and Dentistry. The purpose of this project was to identify and implement strategies to encourage and support the aspirations of young Indigenous school students, ensuring that Medicine and Dentistry are regarded as realistic and achievable career options. In the long-term increasing the numbers of Indigenous doctors and dentists may contribute to improving Indigenous health and wellbeing.

Method One year ago Griffith University Schools of Medicine and Dentistry formed a partnership with Education Queensland to pilot the prospects and outcomes of engaging with Indigenous community leaders, local schools, current medical and dental students and AIDA/IDDA. The main objectives were to establish networks and role models and raise aspirations, confidence and educational outcomes for Indigenous students thus increasing their participation in our Medicine and Dentistry programs.

Results We employed an Indigenous outreach worker who has made connections with 34 local secondary schools and 11 community groups. To date, over 120 Indigenous school students have participated in activities held in their schools and at the Centre for Medicine and Oral Health. Testimonials from the schools have commented with enthusiasm about the positive impact of these activities on their students both within the project and back in the classroom. Factors crucial for success and issues raised have been identified and will be presented.

Conclusion Although this project is in it inception the outcomes are already positive. Analysis is continuing to determine the influence this program has on participation of Indigenous students into Medicine and Dentistry programs.