Assessing the Impact of Competency-Based Medical Education (CBME): Insights from Medical Students

The National Medical Commission (NMC) in India introduced the Competency-Based Medical Education (CBME) curriculum to enhance medical education quality and align with global standards.This curriculum emphasizes developing specific competencies, and ensuring medical students possess essential skills, knowledge, and attitudes.A survey among 500 final-year students and CRMIs at Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital assessed their views on the CBME curriculum using a Google Forms questionnaire.Key findings include the majority finding the Foundation Course necessary for their medical training, most students rating Basic Life Support (BLS) training as very useful, and field visits generally seen as beneficial, while opinions on IT skills sessions were mixed.Early clinical exposure significantly enhanced the learning experience, with high preferences for small group teaching, self-directed learning, reflective learning, and AETCOM training in Phase I MBBS.Elective postings were considered beneficial by most respondents.Students had a mixed understanding of the new assessment schemes under CBME, and subject integration was found to be very beneficial, with preferences for both horizontal and vertical integration.Many students found Phase I MBBS to be academically stressful and strongly suggested more time for sports and physical activities.Overall, the CBME curriculum was positively received, particularly in early clinical exposure, skill development, and subject integration.However, areas such as IT skills training, the duration of the Foundation Course, and better synchronization of vertical integration require improvement.Addressing these concerns can lead to better-prepared medical graduates, capable of meeting the healthcare needs of the population with a strong emphasis on practical skills, ethical practice, and continuous learning.