This literature review aimed to identify factors used to attract indigenous students into medical careers, interventions required to achieve graduation and factors that encourage entry into specialist training programmes and faculty appointments. All medical schools studied used elements of a ‘pipeline approach’ including secondary school contact to encourage aspirational goals and subject selection. Bridging courses are used to ensure students have appropriate skills before entering medical training and extensive practical help is provided. Elements required for primary medical qualification are also necessary for postgraduate achievement success (dedicated and focused study, development of appropriate skills, mentoring, support and institutional and collegial commitment).
