Qualitative Study to Identify Strengths, Weakness, Opportunities, and Challenges of Family Adoption Programs among Students.

BACKGROUND

National Medical Commission (NMC) in their recent notification included Family Adoption Program (FAP) in the undergraduate curriculum to provide a learning opportunity towards community-based health care to Indian medical graduates. This study is carried out to explore and know strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges of FAP.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

FAP were used to gather data using Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and in-depth interviews of the stakeholders of the program. FGD of students was conducted. In-depth interviews of families, Sarpanch, Panchayat members, ASHA workers of the village, faculties, and Head of the Department of Community Medicine were conducted. Data analysis was done by using deductive-inductive content analysis method using computer software NVivo.

RESULTS

Four main categories or themes were formed: strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges. Strengths include increased understanding about Community Medicine subject, beneficence to students, and community. Weakness includes difficulties in field with respect to time and availability and implementation of programs. Opportunities include early field exposure and FAP as a platform for primary healthcare. Challenges include competencies not aligned with phasewise curriculum and difficulties in adopting five families per student.

CONCLUSIONS

The family adoption program needs to be adopted and implemented as a part of curriculum for MBBS students as there are many strengths and opportunities, while weaknesses and challenges need to be addressed.