Perceptions of Medical Students about Community Medicine as a Subject in Medical Course in a South Indian Medical College

The main aim of the teaching community medicine (CM) during undergraduate medical course is to prepare the students to function as community and first-level physicians. A correct attitude towards the subject is therefore essential to imbibe the necessary knowledge and skills for future medical practice.

This study was conducted to obtain an insight into medical students’ perceptions about CM as a subject in their course.

The study was conducted during the period July 2010 to December 2011 involving the 7th semester MBBS students of the batch of 2007 and batch of 2008 of NRI Medical College, Chinakakani, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh (total: 244, males: 107, females: 137). A pre-tested self-administered Likert questionnaire was administered to the students who consented to participate in the study. Analysis was done by EPI Info Version 3.4. Percentage frequencies were calculated for difference in opinions between both sexes and both batches of medical students. Chi-square test with 5% level of significance was applied to analyse statistical association.

Majority of the students showed a fairly good attitude towards CM. However, only 43% considered pursuing a post-graduation in the subject. Most of the female students felt that they must gain enough knowledge and skills in medicine before leaving the medical college (Chi Sq: 93.4). The older batch of students was more in favour of CM.

Interest in CM as a subject is necessary for doctors to be better physicians. Female students’ attitudes are generally more favourable towards the subject. Students feel the need for inclusion of new topics in the course. However, there is anxiety about post-graduation and need to gain necessary knowledge and skills before leaving the college. The faculty has a significant influence in creating the right attitude towards the subject.