Knowledge, Perceptions, and Experiences of MBBS Graduates Regarding the Family Adoption Programme and Its Contribution to Medical Education: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: The Family Adoption Programme (FAP), introduced under competency-based medical education, aims to improve medical students’ understanding of community health, social determinants of health and the healthcare needs of rural populations. Objective: To assess MBBS graduates’ knowledge, perceptions and experiences of FAP and its contribution to medical education. Methods: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 376 medical students from various medical colleges in Central India between March and May 2024. A 15-item questionnaire assessed programme orientation, faculty guidance, field experiences, application of medical knowledge, interpersonal skills and perceived educational benefits. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics. Results: Of the 376 participants, 202 (53.72%) were female and 174 (46.28%) were male. Faculty guidance was rated as best by 78.46% of participants, while 86.97% reported feeling excited during their first family visit. Communication with adopted families was the most frequently reported challenge (40.43%). A total of 59.57% reported developing better interpersonal skills, and 87.77% considered FAP a valuable learning experience. Additionally, 55.05% reported increased awareness of challenges faced by rural communities. Conclusion: Participants generally reported positive experiences with FAP, particularly regarding community engagement, interpersonal skills and understanding rural healthcare challenges. Improved orientation, communication support and structured faculty guidance may further strengthen its educational value.