Bridging the gap in young adult care: the educational value of implementing Student Health Centers in primary care training

Abstract

Abstract Aim: This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and educational impact of utilizing SHCs as primary care training sites in undergraduate medical education, with the goal of enhancing clinical competencies in young adult healthcare. Background: Family Medicine (FM) is essential for integrating community-based health services into medical education. In Turkey, final-year medical students complete a one-month rotation at Family Health Centers (FHCs). However, young adults often utilize Student Health Centers (SHCs) on university campuses, resulting in a gap in students’ experience with this age group. Addressing this, our programme initiated the inclusion of SHCs in the FM internship rotation for the 2024–2025 academic year. Methods: A mixed-methodology study was conducted in two phases. A retrospective analysis was performed on medical records of patients aged 18–25 who attended the SHC over a one-month period. A prospective 9-item online survey assessed the educational impact on final-year medical students following their FM internship, which included the SHC rotation. Descriptive and qualitative statistical analyses were performed to summarize the survey and clinical data. Findings: A total of 1228 patients were seen at the SHC, mirroring FHC trends. All 87 interns surveyed rated the FM programme initiative positively, with 94.1% highly satisfied and 85.9% reporting improved primary care skills. Qualitative feedback highlighted the value of practical experience and called for longer rotations. Conclusion: Integrating SHC rotations into undergraduate medical education is both feasible and beneficial, providing relevant primary care experience for medical students and enhancing training in the care of young adult populations.