Perception and Impact of the Family Adoption Program (FAP) Among Indian Medical Students: Benefits and Challenges

Background The National Medical Commission of India recommends the Family Adoption Program (FAP) under Competency-Based Medical Education (CBME) in the MBBS curriculum. Medical students can witness firsthand the living situations of the people they treat as patients in the hospital through community participation. Students also learn how various health factors impact patients in real-world settings. This study aimed to assess the perceived benefits and impact of FAP in the educational and professional development of medical students and explore the challenges and critical facilitators for medical students participating in FAP. Methodology First, second, and third-year medical undergraduate students who were enrolled in FAP by the Department of Community Medicine participated in an observational study during the last visit of FAP by using a structured questionnaire on the perception of the benefits of FAP and its possible future impact, as well as an investigation of the obstacles and enablers encountered when conducting FAP. Results Approximately 90% of the 305 students who participated believed that FAP is beneficial for their own personal and professional growth. Additionally, they mentioned that faculty engagement was the main factor that encouraged them to participate in FAP, with the benefits outweighing the challenges. Conclusions Medical students often find it difficult to get involved in family adoption programs, but they can be helped by a friendly environment, the correct tools, and mentorship. Medical schools can encourage a future generation of healthcare providers who are more involved and empathetic by addressing these issues and strengthening essential facilitators.