Medical Professionalism Perception of Medical Students in Spain

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Currently, the Doctor-Patient relationship of all cultures and societies is in crisis due to the distrust that has arisen in this social contract. This distrust origins from various changes that have occurred worldwide. We, as doctors, can contribute to solving this crisis, reaffirming the values that integrate medical professionalism. In the absence of specific studies and programmes on medical professionalism in Spanish universities, we consider knowing the perception of medical professionalism by medical students at the University of Murcia essential to see if there is a need to introduce educational improvements in our faculty. Methods: A professionalism questionnaire from the Penn State University School of Medicine (PSCOM) was provided online, voluntarily and anonymously to all students of the Medicine degree of the University of Murcia. Results: The perception of professionalism in students was high, since all categories have more than 75% positive responses on average. The categories of Respect and Altruism were the best rated. On the other hand, there is a slight increase in negative responses as students progress through the degree. Between sexes, however, there were no differences in the criteria. Conclusions: Although the perception of professionalism is good, it is still a perception, so it should reach values closer to 100%. Therefore, the faculty is encouraged to carry out specific programmes to promote medical professionalism in the degree courses.