Teaching Hospital
Our hospitals in Dunedin, Southland and the Lakes District are all teaching hospitals where clinical students are an important part of our healthcare service and get valuable on-the-job training whilst contributing to patient care.
It’s up to you....
If it is proposed that students are to be involved in your care, you will be asked for your permission for students to help care for you.
Please be assured:
Students are bound by the same principles for patient rights and privacy as Health NZ | Te Whatu Ora Southern staff.
Examples of how students may be involved in your care:
- Assessing your health concerns.
- Medical student stitching a wound or assisting the surgical team in the operating room.
- Midwifery student monitoring a person during labour.
- Pharmacy student interviewing you to write a list of the medicines you take at home.
- In some circumstances (e.g. emergencies, staff shortages) a student may be required to assist in your care and this will be discussed with you.
What happens if I say no?
Student practical placement is an important part of training, but above all else, we want you to feel safe and comfortable. Your decision will not disadvantage you. You can change your mind if you later decide to have students help care for you.
For more information, please download the following brochure: Students at Health NZ | Te Whatu Ora Southern Hospitals