Abstract

Background: The number of medically qualified teachers in physiology is decreasing critically in India due to less inclination of medical students toward basic sciences. This is due to decreased job and research opportunities, promotional avenues, and financial returns. Due to this reduction, the current teaching-learning methods in physiology apparently have an inadequate focus on the clinical importance and relevance. The transition between preclinical and clinical training is very stressful period because of inability of student to apply their preclinical knowledge to solve clinical problems.

Aim and Objective: This study aims to analyze and compare the perceptions of medical students and physicians about the role and scope of physiology.

Materials and Methods: This questionnaire-based study was conducted from October 2015 to March 2016. Hundred medical students and hundred physicians (with MBBS degree, practitioners) were selected by convenience sampling. Approval was taken from the Institutional Ethical Committee. Informed consent was taken from participants. The study questions were collected from the previous studies and questionnaire was modified according to our study needs. Finally, 15-item questionnaires was distributed to participants to answer.

Results: All participants completed questionnaire showing a response rate of 100% which was statistically analyzed. There are positive perceptions of medical students and physicians about the role and scope of physiology. Teaching of physiology would be more effective if taught in integrated fashion.

Conclusion: Decreased job opportunities, promotion avenues, academic growth, research opportunities, and financial returns in physiology were some of the main factors for its lower preference.

Key words: Physiology; Medical Students; Physicians, Perceptions; Integrated Teaching; Future Career Option