Approximately 120 transition year students from the south-east have been taking part in the Waterford RCSI Transition Year MiniMed training programme from 18-21 February in Waterford Regional Hospital (WRH) and Waterford Institute of Technology.

This interactive programme gives students the opportunity to step out of their usual classroom setting and experience what it is like to train and work as a doctor.

During the programme, students will attend interactive lectures; receive hands-on training in clinical skills; as well as getting practical experience in medicine and scientific tutorials. One of the highlights of the TY MiniMed initiative is where students will get to witness a live operation video-linked in from Dublin's Beaumont Hospital. Other topics covered over the action-packed four days include human anatomy, radiology, neurology, paediatrics, otolaryngology and surgery.

The 2014 Waterford MiniMed Programme is being coordinated by Professor Riona Mulcahy, Undergraduate Dean, Senior Lecturer in Medicine, RCSI and WRH; Professor Fred Jackson, Department of Medicine, RCSI and WRH; and Mr Joe O'Beirne, RCSI Council Member and Honorary Senior Lecturer in Orthopaedics at RCSI and WRH.

Professor Cathal Kelly, CEO/Registrar of RCSI, who opened the programme earlier this week, said: “The TY MiniMed programme is an excellent opportunity for students to experience what it is like to train as a medical professional. Students will have an opportunity to use innovative technology and learn from some of Ireland's top healthcare professionals from RCSI and Waterford Regional Hospital, giving them an excellent insight into careers in medicine, science and research.”