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In a recurring challenge for medical education in India, non-clinical seats in NEET-PG programs continue to go vacant, raising concerns among educators and policymakers. Recently, the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) reduced the counselling cut-off percentiles to address this issue, sparking mixed reactions within the medical community.
Lowering Cut-Off Percentiles: A Controversial Move
The MCC announced a reduction in the NEET-PG cut-off percentiles to prevent seat wastage. For the general and economically weaker sections (EWS), the percentile has been lowered from 50 to 15, and for reserved categories (SC, ST, OBC, PwD), it has been reduced to 10.
While the move aims to fill vacant seats, particularly in non-clinical subjects, it has drawn criticism from some medical professionals. Critics argue that this decision could compromise the quality of medical education and adversely affect healthcare standards.
“Reducing cut-offs might temporarily solve the vacancy problem but could undermine the credibility of medical education,” said Dr. Shashank Kambali, president of The MSc Medicine Association (TMMA).
Non-Clinical Fields: The Less Preferred Option
Non-clinical subjects, including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and pharmacology, are often seen as a second choice for medical students. In contrast, clinical disciplines like surgery, pediatrics, and internal medicine remain highly sought after due to their direct involvement in patient care.
Dr. Kambali noted, “Most MBBS graduates aim to practice medicine. The lack of patient interaction in non-clinical fields makes these subjects less appealing.”
Reasons for Vacancies in Non-Clinical Seats
Several factors contribute to the lack of interest in non-clinical fields:
- Avoidance of Competition: Students who do not qualify for clinical seats often turn to non-clinical options as a last resort.
- Cost Considerations: Lower-income students may choose non-clinical fields due to the relatively lower fees.
- Performance in NEET-PG: Students with lower NEET-PG scores often have limited options, pushing them towards non-clinical subjects.
- Work-Life Balance: Some students prioritize less stressful roles and manageable work environments offered by non-clinical careers.
“After multiple failed attempts at clinical seats, many students opt for non-clinical subjects to move on with their careers,” explained Dr. Dheeraj Maheshwari, an assistant professor at Pacific Medical College & Hospital, Udaipur.
Societal Stigma and Limited Opportunities
A prevailing societal bias against non-clinical specializations further discourages students. “In India, a ‘doctor’ is equated with a surgeon or physician. Non-clinical specialists are often overlooked,” remarked Dr. Maheshwari.
Employment opportunities in non-clinical subjects are limited to teaching and research roles, which are not as lucrative or prestigious as clinical positions. “The lack of meaningful jobs outside academia makes these fields unattractive,” said Dr. Kambali.
Proposed Solutions
Experts believe systemic changes are needed to address the issue. Suggestions include:
- Improving Employment Prospects: Expanding job opportunities in research, industry, and public health for non-clinical specialists.
- Recruiting Qualified Faculty: Ensuring medical colleges hire committed and experienced teachers for non-clinical subjects.
- Incentives for Non-Clinical Pursuits: Implementing pay hikes and financial incentives to make these fields more appealing.
- Addressing Stigma: Raising awareness about the significance of non-clinical subjects and their contributions to healthcare.
“Rather than forcing graduates into non-clinical fields, we must improve the quality and perception of these disciplines,” suggested Dr. Kambali.
Conclusion
The issue of vacant non-clinical seats in NEET-PG programs highlights deeper systemic challenges in medical education. While lowering cut-off percentiles is a short-term solution, a long-term strategy focusing on improving employment opportunities, addressing societal biases, and ensuring quality education is essential to attract students to non-clinical fields and strengthen India’s healthcare system.
