Tech up teaching

Medical education in India needs a comprehensive reform, incorporating modern advancements, practical training and interdisciplinary collaboration

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Dr Randeep Guleria chairman of Institute of Internal Medicine & Respiratory and Sleep Medicine and director of medical education at Medanta

Medical education in India has come a long way, producing competent health care professionals who serve the nation with utmost dedication. Globally, Indian doctors have always been known for their comprehensive training, especially in clinical medicine. However, the landscape of medical science and technology is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and it is crucial for Indian medical education to keep up with it. There is a need for a comprehensive reform of the curriculum to ensure that it aligns with contemporary health care needs.

To begin with, there now exists a significant gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills among medical graduates. The limited emphasis on practical training during medical education results in a proficiency gap, making it challenging for graduates to apply their knowledge effectively in real-world health care settings. Most examinations after graduation are based on theoretical skills and do not test practical clinical skills of a candidate. Students, therefore, focus on rote knowledge and join coaching classes rather than spend time in wards, learning clinical skills and the art of medicine.