Co-design of a model for learning conversations about ongoing patient care between medical supervisors and trainees in the rural generalist settings: A research protocol

by Linda Furness, Janani Pinidiyapathirage, Matthew French, James Ware, Liam Weber, Brendan Carrigan

Introduction

In rural generalist clinical settings, medical trainees routinely assess patients and discuss their findings with supervisors to plan ongoing care. These interactions termed ‘learning conversations’, serve as important opportunities for workplace-based learning and clinical decision making. However, preliminary evidence and stakeholder feedback indicate a lack of shared understanding regarding how these conversations should be structured, facilitated, and optimised. This study aims to observe current practices, identify supervisor and trainee learning needs, and co-design a model of learning conversations that enhances educational value and supports safe, effective patient care.

Methods and analysis

This study will use an exploratory sequential mixed methods design structured around the 3Cs of co-design (Co-define, Co-design, Co-refine). Phase 1 (co-define) will involve qualitative observation and audio-recording of learning conversations across two rural hospitals to characterise current practice and inform a protype model. In Phase 2 (co-design), supervisor and trainee focus groups will explore perceived needs, expectations, and feedback on the prototype model. A national online survey of rural supervisors and trainees will further inform model refinement. Phase 3 (co-refine) will incorporate national stakeholder input through a workshop, followed by feasibility testing of the refined model during a pilot simulation at a Rural Clinical School. Outcome data will focus on model usability, perceived relevance, applicability across contexts, and users’ experiences of employing the model during simulated learning conversations.

Discussion

This study will produce a stakeholder-informed model that responds to the specific learning and clinical needs of rural generalist practice. By embedding co-design throughout the research process, the resulting model is expected to strengthen learning conversations, optimise trainee learning, and enhance the quality and safety of patient care. The findings have potential applicability across broader health professional training contexts and can support workforce development in rural healthcare settings.