Department of General Practice 14 Gloucester Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch, Canterbury 8013

Welcome to the Department of General Practice, located at Christchurch on Gloucester Street. As an establishment focused on health and a point of interest, we are dedicated to providing exceptional education and research opportunities in the field of primary health care in New Zealand.

At our institution, we are currently undergoing an exciting transformation to become the Department of Primary Care and Medical Simulation. As part of this transition, we invite you to visit our Simulation Centre, where cutting-edge technology and immersive experiences enhance the learning process for our students.

Our department is actively involved in both undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, ensuring that future healthcare professionals receive comprehensive training in primary health care. Through our research initiatives, we contribute to advancing knowledge and understanding in various areas of primary health care in New Zealand.

One of the key components of our educational programs is the attachment module, which spans over eight weeks. During this period, students have the opportunity to gain valuable clinical experience by shadowing a general practitioner for three half days each week. Additionally, they participate in 14 small group, case-based tutorials that cover common general practice conditions and general practice screening.

To further enhance their skills, students also engage in simulation learning. This includes five half-day sessions where they work with actors to develop their consultation skills, focusing on communication, clinical reasoning, and cultural competency.

Our teaching curriculum extends beyond theoretical knowledge to practical skills development. Students receive training in joint examinations and gynaecological examinations, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle real-world scenarios. As part of their assessment, students are required to answer a question of interest that arises during their clinical attachment, supported by thorough literature research. They also undergo a musculoskeletal OSCE and a case-based short answer written examination.

In addition to our comprehensive educational programs, we offer a four-week block module that provides students with tutorials on prescribing, investigations, suturing, and common skin conditions. This module also includes a clinical placement in a rural general practice, where students have the opportunity to consult with patients under supervision and learn the dynamics of working within a practice team.

At the Department of General Practice, we are committed to fostering excellence in primary health care education and research. Join us on this journey as we continue to shape the future of healthcare in New Zealand.