title: A mixed methodology retrospective analysis of the learning experience of final year medical students attached to a 1-week intensive palliative care course based at an Australian university.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To assess the experiences in an established 1-week palliative care placement for final year medical students attending the University of Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia.
  
  
  METHODS
  A retrospective, mixed methodology, consecutive cohort. Student data collected included satisfaction feedback scores, open-ended questions and palliative medicine multiple-choice results before and after their 1-week placement.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Although there were high satisfaction ratings and objective improvements (P < .001) seen in multiple-choice quiz scores, a subset did not improve. Practical issues such as prescribing, opioid use, and conversions were particularly valued by students. More teaching time and practical experience were requested.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Given the importance of palliative care teaching within a medical degree, the results suggest continued development and review of palliative medical education are essential.
authors.affiliation: Department of Palliative Care, Calvary Mater Newcastle, Warabrook, New South Wales , Australia The University of Newcastle, New South Wales , Australia Central Coast Palliative Care Services, New South Wales , Australia vickie.tai@health.nsw.gov.au.
authors.forename: Vicki
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Tai
authors.affiliation: Department of Palliative Care, Calvary Mater Newcastle, Warabrook, New South Wales , Australia The University of Newcastle, New South Wales , Australia.
authors.forename: Erica
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Cameron-Taylor
authors.affiliation: Department of Palliative Care, Calvary Mater Newcastle, Warabrook, New South Wales , Australia The University of Newcastle, New South Wales , Australia.
authors.forename: Katherine
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Clark
mesh_terms: D002983:Clinical Competence; D003258:Consumer Behavior; D004504:Education, Medical, Undergraduate / Q000458:organization & administration*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D009517:New South Wales; D010166:Palliative Care / Q000379:methods*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013337:Students, Medical / Q000523:psychology*
keywords: medical students; palliative care; palliative medicine