Graduate Entry Medical Programmes: Solution to increase physician workforce density
The stethoscope, once a tool of my trade as a respiratory therapist, now rests comfortably around my neck as a medical student.
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My journey from the pulmonary ward to the lecture hall has redefined my understanding of healthcare and opened doors to a fulfilling career.
This is the journey I embarked on in Ghana, my home country. It offers a unique pathway for individuals with a science background to pursue medicine: The Graduate Entry Medical Programme (GEMP). This accelerated four-and-a-half-year programme at four accredited universities provides a rigorous yet rewarding alternative to the traditional six-year medical school path.
Having excelled in my respiratory therapy programme at the University of Ghana, I was drawn to the GEMP for its potential to deepen my medical knowledge and expand my clinical horizons. The dream of becoming a doctor was within reach, but the path was not straightforward.
I chose UGMS for its affordability and international recognition. While the total cost of medical education in the United States of America (USA) can be between $240,000, UGMS offers a more economical option at approximately $6,500 for local students and $50,000 for international students, over four years.
Structure
GEMP is structured into two main phases: pre-clinical and clinical. The pre-clinical phase spans three semesters over 1.5 years, focusing on basic sciences like cell biology, anatomy and pharmacology. The clinical phase, lasting three years, involves hands-on clerkships and integration with students from the regular six-year programme.
Admission into GEMP is competitive and thorough. Applicants must submit their undergraduate transcripts, financial plans, recommendation letters and academic profiles. A crucial step is the two-week access course, costing about $160, followed by an interview with the academic board.
The pre-clinical phase was a whirlwind of learning and adaptation. Esteemed professors guided us through the fundamental sciences, and the support from lecturers and academic board members was invaluable. They provided a safe space for students facing various challenges, from family stress to the demands of balancing children and studies.
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One of the standout benefits of UGMS is the comprehensive medical care provided to students, ensuring peace of mind, especially for those from abroad. The school counsellor played a pivotal role in helping me navigate the mental and emotional challenges of the programme.
GEMP offers several advantages over the regular programme. The diverse backgrounds of my classmates, ranging from engineering to public health, enrich the learning environment. Our previous work experiences allow us to approach medical problems with unique perspectives.
Additionally, the programme’s structure closely mirrors medical education in North America and the UK, providing a robust foundation for those considering international practice.
The journey is not without its challenges. The volume of information is immense and regular evaluations, including interim assessments, viva voce, objective structured practical examinations (OSPEs) and final exams keep us on our toes. However, the sense of community and support from peers and faculty makes it manageable. We are encouraged to see ourselves as a family, ready to help each other through the tough times.
Beacon of opportunity
As I prepare to start my clinical years in January 2025, I reflect on the past two years with gratitude and anticipation. My previous experience as a respiratory therapist has proven invaluable. The clinical acumen I developed has allowed me to approach patient care with a unique perspective. I am confident that this foundation, combined with the comprehensive medical education I am receiving, will equip me to become a compassionate and skilled physician.
I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to undertake electives at prestigious partner institutions such as Yale School of Medicine in the USA or Imperial College School of Medicine in the United Kingdom since UGMS generously offers this experience to high-achieving students in their clinical years. After completing the clinical phase, I will receive a government stipend for two years of horsemanship in Ghana. This will pave the way for me to pursue a residency in cardiothoracic surgery.
GEMP at UGMS is a beacon of opportunity for those with a science background aspiring to become doctors. It offers a blend of affordability, comprehensive education, and international recognition. For anyone considering this path, the journey is challenging but immensely rewarding, shaping not just competent doctors but resilient individuals ready to make a difference in the world of medicine.
The writer is a medical student enrolled in the Graduate Entry Medical Programme at the University of Ghana Medical School