Internship is a transition point for students from a learning role to one where they are also responsible for delivering patient care. As interns are both essential members of the clinical environment and learners undertaking a steep curve of gaining knowledge and practical skills. It is well recognised that this is a point of stress for trainee doctors, and a smooth transition is important for their wellbeing and for patient safety.
Preparation for internship programs are now almost universal across Australian medical schools, and in 2025 the Flinders University’s Northern Territory Medical Program PrINT (Preparation for Internship) program has undergone considerable changes. Originally developed by the NT Regional Training Hub, PrINT has evolved into a core clinical learning activity now overseen by Education Registrar, Dr Dayna Duncan.
It has been redesigned with consideration of past student feedback, current student self-identified learning needs, and local health needs. The design process included cases and protocols from both Alice Springs Hospital and Royal Darwin Hospital as primary allocation centres, and consideration of rural and remote placements and patients.
New topics addressed following:
- Medicolegal for interns
- Learning to teach
- PBS and Prescribing
- Peri-operative management
- Ward call and deteriorating patient simulations
- Internship ‘mega sim’
The NT Regional Training Hub continues to play an active role in supporting students’ career pathways, delivering a presentation on rural and remote medical opportunities, sponsoring a networking lunch, and hosting the popular Pre-Intern Meet & Greet at Flicks, where students, interns, and educators connect before the year’s end.
The Preparation for Internship term ensures that our local graduates are ready to hit the ground running as Territory doctors to meet patient and community needs, and build their career in the NT.