SWOT Analysis on the Perception of Indian Medical Graduate Toward the Family Adoption Program

The National Medical Commission (NMC) of India introduced Family Adoption Programme (FAP) as a part of curriculum based medical education (CBME) for undergraduate medical students in March 2022. This program was started to provide experiential learning opportunities to undergraduate students towards community-based healthcare. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted including undergraduate medical students from all over the country through an online survey. A structured and validated questionnaire was circulated that consisted of both closed and open-ended questions related to perceptions regarding FAP, challenges faced and suggestions for better implementation. Data were collected, responses were analysed and SWOT (Strength, Weakness, Opportunity and Threats) analysis was conducted. Responses were received from 1054 undergraduate medical students from government & private medical colleges across the country. 51.2%, 41.2% and 5.1% participants were from the 1^st Professional Year, 2^nd Professional Year and 3^rd Professional Year respectively. 85% and 87% students agreed/strongly agreed that FAP is helpful to gain an understanding of rural life and to develop a sense of social responsibility respectively. 90% agreed/strongly agreed that FAP is helpful to develop AETCOM skills. Language barrier and resistance offered by families were major challenges. Frequent community visits, training in the local language, provision of benefits to the families and development of a digital database are suggestions for better implementation. Undergraduate medical students are enthusiastic towards the family adoption program and consider it important in the development of social responsibility and AETCOM skills. Future studies are required to include perception of all stakeholders.