Needs Assessment of Outcome Based Undergraduate Competency Framework for the MBBS Program at Rawalpindi Medical University

Objective:
To conduct a needs assessment of competency framework for MBBS at Rawalpindi Medical University that matches local context and international standards.
Method:
A working group reviewed global and regional competency models and drafted initial domains. For these quantitative needs assessment survey, we developed a Google Forms survey and sent to 115 faculty and administrators. Seventy-five responded between January 15 and February 15, 2024. Responses were analysed in Google Forms and results were shared in Board of Deans meetings for approval and development of framework.
Results:
The respondents rated Patient Care, Knowledgeable, Teamwork, Patient Safety and Infection Control as the most important competencies. Critical Thinker, Professional, Skilful, Leadership and Professionalism, Interpersonal Communication Skills, Research Skills and Evidence-Based Medicine were rated as competencies of secondary importance. Community Health Promoter, Role Model and Scholar were rated as least important competencies. Based on this, the framework was finalised with seven core competences Patient Care Deliverer; Ethical and Professional Practitioner; Team Worker and Communicator; Community Health Promoter; Quality and Safety Practitioner; Scholar and Lifelong Learner; and Digital and Artificial Intelligence Literate and 28 secondary competences.
Conclusion:
This framework integrates traditional and modern competencies using faculty feedback and literature evidence. It will guide curriculum revision, teaching methods, and assessment at RMU to prepare graduates for Pakistan’s health challenges.

Competency based education, curriculum development, medical education, Pakistan, digital health, artificial intelligence, patient safety, professionalism.