Perception of Communication Competence in First MBBS Students: The Crucial Role of AETCOM Training

Basic Science forms the keystone in the building block of the Medical Profession. Students understand the context of basic science when taught in relevance to the clinical aspects. Competency-Based Medical Education (CBME) has introduced Attitude, Ethics and Communication in the MBBS curriculum to change the professional conduct of Medical students. This study aimed to evaluate the perception of communication skills among first MBBS students after effective AETCOM learning sessions. The “Communication Skills Attitude Scale” (CSAS) assessed a cross-sectional study involving undergraduate medical students’ attitudes toward learning communication skills. The CSAS questionnaire was added to a Google form, and the link was sent to the students. The response was analyzed by using a percentage scale. The perception of 66 students was presented in terms of percentage on a five-point Likert Scale. Students perceived communication skills as important for gaining knowledge and essential in doctor-patient interaction. Communication skill training forms a basis for the Doctor-Patient interaction and can be learned at the undergraduate level.