Medical Students' Experiences During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Key Takeaways and Statistics

Strategic Insights -

Medical students played an active role in the healthcare sector during the COVID-19 pandemic, with many taking on significant responsibilities and making significant contributions to the healthcare system. A recent study conducted by researchers from Herdecke University in Witten, Germany, aimed to explore the learning and working experiences of medical students during this time. The study found that medical students experienced significant learning gains in key areas such as collaboration, communication, and practical skills. However, they also faced challenges related to stress, excessive demands, and bureaucratic processes.

Key Takeaways:

  • 381 medical students participated in the survey, with the most common placement locations being hospitals (60%), outpatient care (21%), and public health services (18%).
  • Tasks included nursing activities, blood sampling, patient consultations, and smear tests, with most students feeling well integrated.
  • Hospitals were associated with more stress and excessive demands, while the greatest learning gains were experienced in collaboration, communication, and knowledge of the health system.
  • Many respondents criticized the healthcare system for its focus on economics, bureaucratic processes, and hierarchical structures, while expressing appreciation for nursing care.
  • 80% of participants would be available for another assignment like this and the integration of students was considered a success.
  • The study highlighted the importance of structured active participation in healthcare and the need for more support from the faculty.
  • The research concluded that many medical students experienced progresses in key areas of expertise and would like to see more structured active participation in healthcare.

Statistics:

  • 381 medical students participated in the survey.
  • 60% of participants were placed in hospitals, while 21% were placed in outpatient care and 18% in public health services.
  • 80% of participants would be available for another assignment like this.
  • The majority of students felt well integrated in their placement locations.
  • The learnings gains were experienced in the following areas:

- Collaboration

- Communication

- Knowledge of the health system

- Practical skills

- Insights into everyday medical practice

- Crisis management

Sources:

  • NewsRx. Researchers at Herdecke University Release New Data on Medical Education ("It would be nice if the university appreciated the commitment more" - medical students and their learning and working experiences as co-caregivers during the pandemic). Medical Letter on the CDC & FDA. November 2, 2025; p 724.
  • GMS Journal for Medical Education, 2025;42(4).