Perceptions of Phase III MBBS students regarding reinforcing anatomy during clinical training: A cross-sectional study

Introduction: Anatomy forms the foundation for safe and effective clinical practice; however, retention and application of anatomical knowledge during clinical training remain challenging for medical students. This study aimed to explore Phase III MBBS students’ perceptions regarding the need for reinforcing anatomy during clinical training.Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among 250 Phase III Part I MBBS students at a private medical college in Tamil Nadu, India. A structured, validated questionnaire assessed students’ perceptions regarding the necessity of anatomy reinforcement, preferred anatomical sub-disciplines, teaching methods, assessment strategies, and optimal timing during the clinical phase. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and selected inferential tests, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.Results: A majority of students (94%) perceived a need for structured reinforcement of anatomy during clinical years to enhance clinical correlation. Cross-sectional anatomy (80%), regional anatomy (66%), and neuroanatomy (63%) were identified as priority areas. Cadaveric dissection was preferred by most students (94%) compared with virtual methods.Conclusion: Phase III MBBS students perceived a clear need for structured reinforcement of anatomical knowledge during clinical training. These findings may assist in considering targeted strategies for reinforcing anatomy to support clinical learning.