Perceptions of pathology postgraduate students towards the District Residency Programme: A mixed-method study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Pathology Residency Training

Background:

• The National Medical Commission introduced the District Residency Programme (DRP) in 2021 for broad medical specialties.
• Pathology, a diagnostic field, requires specific considerations for residency training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess postgraduate pathology students' perceptions of the District Residency Programme (DRP).
• To identify areas for improvement in the DRP's structure and implementation for pathology residents.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional, mixed-method study utilizing a validated 31-item questionnaire.
• Involved pathology postgraduate students across various Indian medical colleges who had completed their DRP.

Main Results:

• A significant majority (64.07%) found the DRP duration excessive.
• Many students reported logistical challenges, including travel (62.77%) and lack of relevant postings (34.20% in concerned teams, 25.97% in laboratories).
• Students largely disagreed that DRP was helpful, with key themes for reform including implementation and structure.

Conclusions:

• The District Residency Programme (DRP) requires substantial reform based on pathology resident feedback.
• Reducing the DRP duration and improving its implementation are crucial for enhancing postgraduate pathology education.
• Findings emphasize the need to re-evaluate the DRP's structure for the benefit of pathology residents.