Implementation of AETCOM Module in Indian Settings

Abstract

The making of a medical professional is a complex task and essentially requires a combination of a number of activities. The present review was carried out to explore the implementation of attitude, ethics and communication (AETCOM) module related teaching and assessment in medical colleges in Indian settings. An extensive search of all materials related to the topic was carried out in the PubMed search engine, and a total of 28 articles were selected based on the suitability with the current review objectives and analyzed. Keywords used in the search include attitude, ethics communication, medical students, and medical education in the title alone. In order to bridge this gap, the regulatory body has introduced the AETCOM module in the undergraduate curriculum. The topics in the AETCOM have been divided into different modules, which gradually becomes complex as the students move from the first phase to the subsequent phases. The assessment of the AETCOM competencies can be done through the use of a wide range of methods. However, the successful implementation of the same will immensely depend on the faculty development programs. To conclude, in order to accomplish the national vision to produce a competent graduate who can meet the health-care needs of the society, the phase-wise introduction of AETCOM module is a significant step. This calls for the need to adopt a systematic approach to effectively schedule and cover the assigned topics, thereby guiding the students on the path toward becoming community physicians.