Exploring the Implementation and Qualitative Impact Evaluation of Attitude Ethics and Communication Module 1.2 on Phase I MBBS Students: A Prospective Study

Background:The traditional medical education system in India did little to improve the communication skills and attitudes of the medical students, leading to a gap in building a cordial understanding with the patients.Attitude, Ethics, and Communication (AETCOM) module 1.2 addresses this gap by incorporating innovative teaching-learning strategies, including role-playing, cinematic education, and simulated patient interactions, to deepen students' understanding of the patient experience.Aim and objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the implementation and qualitative impact of the AETCOM module 1.2.Objectives included assessing students' and faculty perceptions, analyzing qualitative impact through simulated patient experiences, identifying areas for improvement, and gathering student suggestions.Methodology: An educational interventional prospective study was conducted.Students participated in sessions involving roleplay, cinema education, observed stations for physical examination (OSPE), and reflective writing.A prevalidated questionnaire assessed students' perceptions and reflections, and thematic analysis was used to evaluate qualitative data. Results:The students demonstrated increased empathy and patient-centric perspectives, with 47.5% expressing a positive perception of the module's teaching-learning methods (TLM), particularly roleplay and cinema education.Additionally, 94.4% endorsed the module's inclusion in the curriculum, while 12.6% recommended modifications.The thematic analysis revealed themes related to effective communication, professionalism, and empathy, emphasizing the module's value in enhancing interpersonal skills.Conclusions: Findings suggest that AETCOM modules are instrumental in bridging gaps in traditional, knowledge-centric medical education.