Most new training programmes designed to widen access to medicine in the UK are failing to increase the diversity of medical students, according to a study published in the BMJ.

It shows that although historic under-representation of women and of minority ethnic groups has been redressed, a large proportion of medical students still come from the most affluent socioeconomic groups in society.

The GMC have launched a 'spot the mistake' cartoon strip to help medical students improve their understanding of professionalism and good practice before they start work. 

Medical students can also test their knowledge through several quiz questions and case study dilemmas - taking on the role of either a medical student or the medical school. All of the activities reinforce good practice in line with the GMC guidance.

Medical students with high levels of burnout are more likely to self-report unprofessional conduct related to patient care, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

The study of 2,682 medical students found that those with burnout were significantly more likely to have engaged in cheating or dishonest clinical behaviours, such as copying from a crib sheet or from another student during an exam; or reporting a physical examination finding as normal when it had been omitted.

Many families are being forced to find an average of £3,123 a year – or an estimated £15,000 over a five year medical course – to get their children through medical school owing to spiralling levels of debt and the impact of tuition fees, says a new BMA report.

The report which surveyed 1,987 students across the UK found that two-thirds of students are now relying on parental support while they study, with the average amount being given in a year standing at £3,123.