# “It would be nice if the university appreciated the commitment more” – medical students and their learning and working experiences as co-caregivers during the pandemic

## TL;DR

Medical students during the pandemic contributed to healthcare and gained valuable experience, but felt underappreciated and stressed by the system.

## Contribution

This study explores the experiences of medical students as co-caregivers during the pandemic, highlighting their learning and challenges.

## Key findings

- Students gained skills in collaboration, communication, and crisis management.
- Hospitals were linked to higher stress and excessive demands.
- 80% of students would participate in similar assignments again.

## Abstract

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many medical students played an active role in the healthcare sector. This cross-sectional survey was used to record the participants´ work and learning experiences.

During the first lockdown (May/June 2020), we conducted a nationwide online survey of medical students who took part in pandemic assignments.

A total of 381 medical students on placement participated in the survey. The most common placement locations were hospitals (60%), followed by outpatient care (21%) and the public health services (18%). Tasks included in particular nursing activities, blood sampling, patient consultations and smear tests.

Most students felt well integrated. Hospitals were associated with more stress and excessive demands.

The greatest learning gains were experienced in the areas of collaboration, communication, knowledge of the health system, practical skills, insights into everyday medical practice and crisis management.

In the free text responses, many respondents criticised the healthcare system particularly the focus on economics, bureaucratic processes and hierarchical structures. Positive feedback related to appreciation of nursing care.

Many students said that they missed support from the faculty. Looking to the future, many would like to see more practical and responsible activities in healthcare.

80% of participants would be available for such an assignment again.

The integration of the students can be considered a success. Many experienced progresses in key areas of expertise and would like to see more structured active participation in healthcare.