Perception of Postgraduates towards District Residency Program: A Mixed Method Study

Abstract

Background: All medical students pursuing post-graduation in broad specialities should mandatorily be posted in district health centres for three months during the period of their training as per the National Medical Commission. Though the provision of District Residency Programme was made in 2020, it could not be implemented owing to prevailing pandemic conditions. Since it is implemented for the first time in 2023 in post graduate training, it is imperative to assess the perception and personal experience of post graduate students who have completed this 3-month long training.

Material and methods: This study consisted of a questionnaire consisting of closed ended and open-ended questions which was prepared and validated by senior resource faculties of department of Medical Education of a private medical college. The responses to closed-ended questions were analysed using descriptive statistics. The responses to open-ended questions from postgraduate students regarding DRP were quantified from the contents. Descriptive categories were then framed from the contents.

Results: Most of the residents (64.7%) disapproved the fact that DRP is relevant to post-graduate curriculum. Since it was implemented for the first time, majority of the residents (69.6%) find it difficult to accept it in the already vast and challenging post-graduate curriculum. 43.1% postgraduate students recommended that proper accommodation and food facilities should be provided during DRP posting.

Conclusion: The district residents seemed to be quite dissatisfied with the basic amenities which were provided and the learning environment. The study highlighted the crucial role of a District Residency Programme Coordinator (DRPC) who will serve as a connecting link between the district residents and the state government authorities for the successful implementation of DRP.