Selection Approach for Indian Medical Residency Program: Perspective of Interns and Residents

Abstract

Introduction: Indian Postgraduate (PG) selection process has undergone various modifications since the past decade including the recent single nationalised entrance test initiated from April 2016. The perception of graduates and PGs for the type and process of selection test is not known. Aim: To study the perception of interns and residents regarding the process of the National Eligibility Cum Entrance Test for Postgraduates (NEET-PG) selection test. Materials and Methods: An exploratory qualitative thematic analytic study was conducted using purposive sampling with Semi-Structured Interviews (SSI), as per gender and academic grading, interns, and residents were selected. Eleven interns and ten first year residents took part. Braun and Clarke's six-phase thematic analysis framework was used for data analysis. Results: Three themes emerged; "building validity", "Proposed modifications" and "learning by the assessment". Validity building was related in terms of framing the multiple-choice questions, the format of the examination, and single attempt made per year. Different modifications were suggested by graduates and residents, in terms of assessment tools and strategies. Significant variations were observed in terms of learning by present assessment. Conclusion: The NEET-PG, a single nationalised assessment, appears to be well accepted with questioning for its validity in terms of assessment tool used, leading to restricted learning for the applicants. Participants widely proposed various assessment tools and methods for conducting a PG selection test for medical specialties. The NEET-PG assessment requires modification in terms of domains being assessed for the applicant so that it would improve patient care and safety. Selection authorities should pay weightage to the applicant's voice before framing the policies.