Table 1 Subthemes and themes from thematic content analysis

1. Insufficient dialogue and support from universities

Abandonment

2. Uninterested management and colleagues

3. Students as burden or resource

Ambivalence

4. Security and insecurity

5. Conflicts of loyalties

6. Learning opportunities from complex PHC situations

Sharing a holistic approach within the PHC system

7. From dependence to independence

8. Finding time for reflection