Rheumatology education in India: a survey-based cross sectional study

This study aimed at understanding the perception and perspectives of rheumatology trainees about specialist training in India. Rheumatology trainees (Doctorate of Medicine, Diplomate of National Board) in Indian universities (2010 onwards) were contacted to complete a validated e-survey consisting of 41 questions to evaluate the current rheumatology training in India. Of 53 respondents (M:F 3.4:1, mean age 37 years ± 12.7), 81.1% trained at government hospitals, and 15.1% trained at private hospitals. During training period, 37.5% respondents were exposed to 6-7 h of didactics/week. They treated nearly 175 patients (175 ± 35.4) per week and reported a reasonable level of independence in management of patients with common rheumatic diseases (RDs) during their training (7.5 ± 0.7 SD). However, nearly one-third of the trainees were not exposed to basic immunology and laboratory techniques. Similarly, placement in the radiology department was not a part of the curriculum for nearly half of the trainees, 80% were not confident to manage paediatric RDs and soft tissue rheumatism. Almost 60% did not feel comfortable in addressing ancillary care including patient counselling as they had not received formal training. Among the participants, 59% were not satisfied by the current system of assessment, 86.8% suggested for multiple time point-based assessment systems and 45.3% preferred objective and subjective assessment in final examinations. Rheumatology training in India offers notable exposure to patients and independence in managing cases. However, there is an unmet need for improvement in training in the field of laboratory, radiology and ancillary care, and to overhaul assessment system by including objective evaluation.