Urological education in Saudi Arabia medical schools: Where are we now and how can we do better? A cross-sectional study

Introduction: Urology is a part of healthcare known as surgical specialty that deals with different diseases of male and female urinary system and male reproductive organs. Aim: The study aimed to evaluate the urological education in Saudi Arabia medical schools and assess medical students’ knowledge and preference. Methodology: A cross-sectional study in Saudi Arabia targeted clinical years’ medical students from all regions, using a validated questionnaire to collect demographic, academic, and urology specialty knowledge, attitudes, and reasons for not choosing a specialty. The questionnaire was distributed through social media until no more answers were obtained. Results: A study of 216 students in Saudi Arabia found that 58.8% were male, with 107 in their 5 th year, 78 in their 6 th year, and 31 in medical interns. The majority were in public universities, with 59.7% believing urology rotation should be the part of the medical school curriculum. The most preferred specialties were family medicine (18.1%), anesthesia (7.9%), and urology (7.4%). Conclusion and Recommendations: The study revealed that medical students lack knowledge and interest in the urology specialty, leading to low career preference. The frequency of rotations is insufficient, and more exposure is needed. Most students believe urology rotation should be the part of medical school curriculum.