Students learning medicine in general practice in Canada and Australia

Background Over the past 20 years, there has been increasing focus on general practice and the role of general practitioners (GPs) in undergraduate medical education. Objectives This article explores the experiences in Australia and Canada of students learning medicine in the general practice setting, drawing on general practice and medical education literature in both countries and beyond. Discussion In Canada and Australia, there is substantial and growing evidence that students learning medicine in general practice has positive value for all involved, including the students, patients, wider community, academic institutions and GPs. The space, time and financial aspects of GP-based medical education require further study. Nevertheless, there is considerable potential to develop and implement a national plan for GP-based medical education with targeted government investment and commitment from academic institutions.