Evidence Generating Community Health Intervention Project – An Innovative Practice to Cultivate Research Culture among Medical Students

Abstract

Deprived research culture among medical students and lack of research at medical student level was thought-provoking key to start “An Evidence Generating Community Health Intervention Project” (EviGenCHIP). EviGenCHIP is unique innovative program initiated by the Department of Community Medicine and Medical Education Unit. There are more than 600 medical colleges in India. It is an opportunity to sensitize and develop research culture in young minds of Indian medical graduates. The study aimed to sensitize medical students about the role of research and evidence in medical science and thus developing research culture among undergraduates. Methods: This was the education-based observation cross-sectional study. Students themselves identify the health problem during their learning time. They would do scientific research on the selected problem and find out best solution for that problem. Every year, the institute conducts this program for 3rd MBBS students during April to October. At the starting of the project, the institute conducts sensitization session to teach them basics of research and epidemiology method. Then, the institute divides the students among small groups and allocates one faculty to guide them in their projects. At the end, the institute conducts the presentation session and appreciates students as well faculties with certificate. Results: Since 2014, EviGenCHIP started, total 110, 106, 84, 76, 121, 152, and 150 students have participated in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2021, respectively. Total 25, 20, 13, 16, 21, 24, and 31 faculties have participated in EviGenCHIP project for respective year. It has long-term impact. Feedback of EviGenCHIP showed that students are developing research culture, which might not be possible with traditional academics. Conclusion - EviGenCHIP like projects have long term impact. It will take time to create research culture in medical colleges but support at college level and university level surely change the culture. Conclusion: EviGenCHIP like projects have long term impact. It will take time to create research culture in medical colleges but support at college level and university level surely change the culture.