Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry

Peninsula Medical School Logo

Peninsular dental school

Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry (PCMD) was an educational institution in the United Kingdom that focused on the training of medical and dental professionals. It was formed through a partnership between the University of Exeter, the University of Plymouth, and the NHS in the South West. The college aimed to address the shortages of healthcare professionals in the region and to provide a high standard of medical and dental education.

History

The Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry was established in the early 2000s as a pioneering collaboration between two universities and the National Health Service. This innovative approach was designed to leverage the strengths and resources of each partner institution to offer exceptional medical and dental education and research opportunities. The collaboration was among the first of its kind in the UK, aiming to create a new model for healthcare education that was closely integrated with healthcare delivery.

Programs

PCMD offered a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in medicine and dentistry. The undergraduate medical program was known for its problem-based learning approach, which emphasized practical experience and early patient contact. Similarly, the dental program focused on providing students with extensive clinical experience from the early stages of their education. Postgraduate programs at PCMD included research degrees and specialized training for healthcare professionals.

Research

Research at the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry was a critical component of its mission. The institution was involved in a wide range of medical and dental research projects, often with a focus on community health and primary care. This research aimed not only to advance scientific knowledge but also to directly improve healthcare practices and outcomes in the South West region and beyond.

Facilities

PCMD boasted state-of-the-art facilities for both education and research. These included modern laboratories, clinical skills centers, and libraries equipped with the latest technology and resources. The college also had access to a network of hospitals and healthcare providers across the South West, providing students with a diverse range of clinical placements.

Merger

In 2012, the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry was split, with its functions and responsibilities divided between the University of Exeter and the University of Plymouth. This decision was made to allow each university to focus on its strengths and to further develop its healthcare education and research programs. Following the split, the University of Exeter established the University of Exeter Medical School, and the University of Plymouth formed the Plymouth University Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry.

Legacy

The legacy of the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry lives on through its alumni and the ongoing work of its successor institutions. The college's innovative approach to medical and dental education, its emphasis on research, and its commitment to community healthcare have had a lasting impact on the region and the wider healthcare community.