CHALLENGES FACED BY SELECTED MEDICAL STUDENTS DURING CLINICAL TRAINING IN SELECTED MUNICIPALITIES IN NUEVA ECIJA

Abstract

Medical education offers diverse opportunities, including clinical practice, research, teaching, and healthcare management. The global increase in interest in the medical field, driven by the growing demand for healthcare professionals, has also introduced challenges, particularly during practical clinical training in the later years of medical school. Thus, this study was conducted to investigate the challenges faced by selected medical students during clinical training. This study employed a multifaceted research design using qualitative and phenomenological approaches. The researchers conducted focused interviews with a selected group of medical students in Nueva Ecija. Ten participants from the region were chosen and engaged in semi-structured interviews, during which they responded to a series of probing questions. Audio recordings were used to capture and analyze the data provided by the participants. The participants were predominantly female, aged twenty-two, and in their fourth year of medical school. There was an equal distribution of participants who were in current relationships. A common challenge reported by most participants was the fear of making mistakes, along with difficulties in communicating with patients. However, participants indicated that effective social support, engagement in relaxation activities, and participation in recreational pursuits helped them overcome these challenges. Additionally, they recommended improving clinical support by increasing the availability of clinical resources and materials. Understanding the challenges encountered in medical education, particularly during clinical training, can help medical institutions enhance the quality of medical education. The findings highlighted the need to strengthen clinical support for medical students. Adequate clinical support is essential in facilitating a more comprehensive and effective learning experience, as it helps students navigate the complexities inherent in medical practice and education.