Perception of graduates from the Faculty of Medicine, University of Antioquia (2005-2007), on their undergraduate training

Abstract

Objective: To establish the perception of physicians graduated between 2005 and 2007 from the Faculty of Medicine (Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia) concerning their undergraduate training.

Methodology: A qualitative study was carried out using methodological elements of the grounded theory. Participants were selected by means of a non-random method. Primary data, from semi-structured interviews and focus groups, were codified and grouped

until central categories emerged.

Results: Dissociation between undergraduate training and the reality faced in professional practice emerged as the main category. Other categories were: the demanding –even absorbing- character of undergraduate training; the concentration of the practice in high-complexity institutions; the low integration among some training areas; the autonomy as a value acquired during medical training.

Conclusions: Despite the aforementioned dissociation, graduates are being able to overcome the challenges faced in their medical practice. Based on their accounts it is valid to think that the training received at the Faculty is contributing to this goal.