Medical education
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Medical student electives are memorable learning experiences, of which approximately 40% are spent in developing countries. Students often have laudable motivation but are rarely helped to learn most effectively or contribute meaningfully whilst away. Each year an estimated 350 years of elective time is spent in developing countries (by students from the UK alone), which represents substantial opportunity. ⋯ Electives are a highlight of clinical training but probably often represent missed opportunities. There are both educational and moral reasons for seeking more considered approaches to reduce the 'medical tourism' that can result from the current largely ad hoc arrangements.