Concerns medical students won't learn enough about mental health and women's health

Otago University is looking to remove psychological medicine, and obstetrics-and-gynaecology from its compulsory curriculum for the sixth and final year.

College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists Vice President John Tait says the subjects are vital to learn about in the final year.

He says you become part of the team -- whereas in fifth year they are only observational medical students and don't get involved in the procedures to the same extent -- or get a feel for what the specialty is about.

The university maintains the subjects will still be studied earlier on in the degree, with appropriate reinforcement at all stages through the degree.