A multi-university study of which factors medical students consider when deciding to attend a rural clinical school in Australia.

INTRODUCTION: As in many developed nations, there is a shortage in the rural medical workforce in Australia. Research indicates that a strong relationship exists between rural educational exposure and an increased interest in pursuing a rural career or selecting a rural internship. Accordingly, in 2000 the Australian Commonwealth Government established the Rural Clinical Schools (RCS) program. Under this program, 25% of parent medical schools' …