6. How could it be funded?

Ideally there would be extra funding from the federal health budget. However, this JFSS-for-BMP proposal could be almost cost-neutral. This could be achieved by redistributing some of the funds from the BMP Support Scheme earmarked for conference attendance.

While conferences are excellent for networking and academic educational opportunities, the practical experience that the JFSS offers is more valuable to medical students. Additionally, it is a more efficient use of taxpayer money. Not only do BMP students personally benefit, but the larger problem of rural health workforce shortages is also addressed.