The Medical Schools Outcomes Database (MSOD) and Longitudinal Tracking Project: Achieving a Sustainable Health Workforce for New Zealand

Abstract

Introduction/background: The MSOD project is a landmark study which was established by the Medical Deans of Australia and New Zealand. Internationally, it is the first to consistently collect data on medical students at the commencement of study, at graduation, and into the postgraduate years to answer health workforce questions In New Zealand, the MSOD study has been underway since 2007 and contains data from thousands of individual medical students and graduates from both Auckland and Otago schools of medicine. Aim/objectives: The aim of the MSOD project is to collect data from medical students in Australia and New Zealand in order to explore associations between demographic factors, medical course experiences, career aspirations and pathways. Information gained from the study informs curriculum development and future medical workforce planning, particularly with respect to careers where there are shortages (e.g. general practitioners, psychiatrists and rural doctors). Methods: Each year, every medical student in New Zealand, as well as medical graduates 1, 3, 5 and 8 year’s postgraduation, are invited to complete a MSOD questionnaire. Items include current and future practice, location and career aspirations. Responses are linked to medical school experiences. Results: There are strengths and challenges associated with using a longitudinal prospective cohort study methodology. Response rates vary, but are as high as 99% at exit from medical school, and over 50% at PGY5 with strong buy-in from medical students and graduates. Key results from recent studies will be presented, including early predictors of medical student interest in a General Practice career, and/or to work in a rural location. Discussion: Longitudinal data that tracks the same student throughout their training and into the workforce is critical for answering health workforce questions. This allows the ability to pinpoint factors such as medical school or training experiences that are influential in career decisions.