Perceptions of the preparedness of medical graduates for their responsibilities as �??physicians of first contact�?�: a pilot study

Abstract

Sajitha MF Rahman, Prince RH Christopher, Kirubah V David, Venkatesan Sankarapandian

Background: The objectives of the medical graduate training program are laid down by the Medical Council of India (MCI) since 1997 that was subjected to amendment till 2012. The graduate medical students are envisaged to provide first contact care inclusive of preventive, promotive, curative and rehabilitative aspect of medicine. However, significant gap in the clinical skills of graduate doctors in India are echoed by the team of medical education experts. Objectives: Keeping these issues in mind, this study aims to explore the perceptions of medical graduates in their preparedness towards their role as first contact clinicians, in management of common problems, in providing holistic care based on bio-psycho-social approach. Methodology: Qualitative methodology was used to explore the perceptions, experiences and ideas of MBBS graduates during medical training, internship and tenure in a Family medicine unit. Results: The initial theme emerged from the data was the disappointment with the lack of opportunity for experiential learning and clinical reasoning. Subsequently, the second theme of passiveness and perceived incompetence in clinical work was evident. This in turn influenced the graduates’ perception of the appreciation of learning opportunities in Family Medicine unit towards preparation for their role of physicians of 1st contact care. Conclusion: The participants’ perception of lack of confidence in their role of first contact physician reflects the opportunities in the training schedule that needs further research and intervention to improve medical graduates’ preparedness for their role as primary care providers in India.