Determinants Influencing the Mastery of Preclinical Medical Skills: A Study From the Mekong Delta

This study was conducted at Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy, a leading health sciences institution in the Mekong Delta region, to evaluate the adequacy of the medical skills training program for fifth- and sixth-year medical students. This study utilizes a quantitative methodology, gathering data from survey questionnaires completed by fifth- and sixth-year medical students at Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy. The research aims to evaluate students' proficiency in medical skills practice and to investigate how variables such as academic year, academic performance, and post-graduation career preferences influence students' perceptions of the medical skills training program. A quantitative study involving 462 fifth- and sixth-year medical students demonstrated a high level of responsiveness to the medical skills training program (p < 0.001). However, no statistically significant correlation was observed between students' perceptions of the program and their competency in medical skills practice. This study reveals that a positive perception of the medical skills training program does not directly translate into superior practical competency. Academic performance emerged as a key determinant, with students in the 'Good-Excellent' category demonstrating a significantly higher responsiveness rate (90.3%) than their 'Average-Poor' counterparts (77.9%) (p < 0.001). Furthermore, students' intended post-graduation workplace influenced their perception, with those planning to work at the provincial level reporting a more favorable evaluation than those targeting district-level positions. However, no significant differences in practical competency were observed between these groups. These findings highlight the critical need for curriculum enhancements, improved infrastructure, and increased engagement of clinical faculty to ensure the effectiveness of medical skills training programs.