Nearly three quarters of young doctors in Slovakia say they do not feel fully prepared for clinical practice after graduating from medical school. According to a survey by the organisation Young Doctors, many graduates believe they lack enough hands-on training, especially simulation exercises and practical clinical experience. The survey suggests that the biggest challenge for newly qualified doctors is dealing with acute medical situations.
Young Doctors director Maroš Noge says respondents identified emergency decision-making and patient management as the most critical weak points in their training. The survey also points to limited experience with modern medical technologies. Many young doctors said they had only minimal contact with specialised equipment during their studies and often struggle with hospital software and medical documentation.
The Faculty of Medicine at Comenius University, the country’s largest medical faculty, says a strong theoretical foundation remains essential, but acknowledges there is room to strengthen practical teaching. The faculty says it has expanded simulation-based learning and training in medical documentation and hospital software systems.
The Health Ministry agrees that practical training must continue to modernise. It plans to further expand simulation centres in university hospitals, allowing students to practise clinical situations safely before entering real clinical practice.
Meanwhile, the head of the Doctors’ Unions Association, Peter Visolajský, says he understands the concerns of young doctors, but stresses that patient safety must remain the top priority. He says medical students already have opportunities to gain experience through internships and emergency shifts.
The survey also highlights concerns about mentoring. Six out of ten young doctors said they were not assigned a mentor during their specialist training, despite considering personal guidance crucial during their first years in practice.
Source: STVR
