Philippine E-Journals

Experiences and perceptions of former medical students on the neurology curriculum: A reminiscing focus group discussion

Amado M. San Luis | Cely D. Magpantay | Jose D. Quebral

 

Abstract:

Introduction The objective of this focus group discussion was to explore the experiences and perceptions of former medical students with the undergraduate neurology curriculum. Methods Perceptual patterns were derived from transcriptions of the discussion of the participants in a focus group discussion involving faculty, residents and postgraduate interns. Data were analyzed using latent content analysis and constant comparison techniques. ResultsShared experiences in clinical clerkship were mostly negative. The difficult initial patient encounters were suggested to be minimized through hierarchal modeling, modification of the subject contents and early clinical exposures. An environment created to be conducive to learning and neuroscience subjects suited for the primary physician will equip the medical graduates better. The perceived pressures forced the participants to find ways to cope. Neuroanatomy helped much in the clinics. The group suggested more clinical correlates and the use of drawings to aid the graduates attain the competency in neurology for a primary physician. Conclusion The participants’ experiences were largely negative and were brought about by a varied form of pressures. Contributing factors were identified and suggestions to improve learning and retention were given.