Perceptions of clinical neurosciences among trainees in Wuhan, China

Abstract

Aim: Understand attitudes of Chinese medical students toward clinical neuroscience at a time of medical education reform. Methods: A survey assessed Chinese medical students’ self-perceived knowledge of neurology and comfort in diagnosing/managing neurological disorders. An assessment of students’ preferred methods for learning neurology was also conducted. Results: Chinese students reported knowledge of neurology lower than most but not all other specialties. This self-reported knowledge increased between progressive years of training. However, comfort with the clinical care of neurologic patients did not improve. Bedside teaching, small group sessions and textbooks were deemed the most favored methods for learning. Discussion: An understanding of attitudes toward neurology among medical students in China can play an important step in curriculum development and reform in the neurosciences.