Looking 'back to the future': alumni perceptions of a UK undergraduate medical programme

The five year Bachelor of Medicine (BM5) programme of the University of Southampton commenced in 1971. In keeping with other medical schools, the Southampton BM5 programme has been involved in a number of incremental curriculum reforms over the years. Complementing the School's annual pre-registration house officer (PRHO) questionnaire, this study of alumni cohorts (2000-2003) sought to investigate further how past graduates view their medical education and whether there are emerging priorities in medical practice. Findings confirm that alumni rate the BM5 highly and generally value the BM5 aims. Considering the impact of the social context on individual well-being and patient care, increased emphasis may need to be placed on preventive medicine, including greater alignment of several curriculum areas with clinical practice.