In a landscape where medical breakthroughs are transforming patient care at an unprecedented pace, Indian doctors are increasingly recognising the need for continuous, specialised upskilling. A recent survey has revealed a striking consensus among Indian medical professionals: An overwhelming 94% of doctors feel that the standard medical curriculum is insufficient to meet the demands of modern healthcare.Beyond routine continuing medical education (CME), they are seeking advanced, hands-on training that aligns with the evolving complexities of clinical practice, finds the study conducted by OC Academy, a healthcare-education platform.
This growing demand for specialised knowledge reflects a broader shift in the healthcare industry, one where the need for lifelong learning and practical expertise has become essential. As new treatment protocols, diagnostic technologies, and disease management strategies emerge, doctors are faced with the challenge of staying ahead of the curve where patient outcomes can hinge on their ability to adapt quickly.
The need for specialised training beyond CMEs
According to the survey, nearly 60% of doctors strongly agree that specialised upskilling is essential, while another 34% agree. The survey, which involved 400 medical professionals across various specialties, indicates that doctors are looking beyond traditional CMEs for more in-depth learning experiences tailored to their professional needs.
For example, many respondents highlighted the importance of hands-on experience, with nearly 24% of them prioritising practical simulations or clinical exposure when considering upskilling opportunities. This is not surprising, as medical practice is inherently skill-based. CEO of OC Academy, Balu Ramachandran said, “Doctors become better with experience, especially when it comes to diagnosis and treatment. Upskilling ensures that even younger doctors can achieve high levels of competence more rapidly.”
Flexible learning and self-directed education on the rise
In line with the demand for practical training, there is also a notable shift towards flexible learning models. The survey reveals that 61% of doctors prefer hybrid learning formats that combine online and offline components, indicating a need for both digital convenience and real-world application. This flexibility allows doctors to balance their demanding work schedules with ongoing education, addressing one of the key challenges identified in the survey: Lack of time, which was cited by 31% of respondents as a major barrier to upskilling.
Furthermore, more than half of the doctors (55%) actively seek out online resources to stay updated on the latest medical developments, reflecting a growing trend of self-directed learning. This shift is partly driven by the accessibility of digital platforms that offer specialised courses, allowing doctors to refine their skills at their own pace. As healthcare continues to evolve, this proactive approach to education is becoming increasingly essential.
Universal need for upskilling
One of the most notable findings of the survey is that the desire for upskilling spans all levels of experience. While 39% of respondents have more than 20 years of medical experience, a significant portion of 25% are early-career doctors with less than five years in the field. This indicates that the demand for professional development is not limited to newer doctors seeking to build foundational skills but also extends to seasoned practitioners looking to keep pace with advancements in medical science.
The universal need for continuous education is also evident in the fact that nearly 40% of respondents either own their own clinic or hospital. For these professionals, staying updated with new treatment methods and technologies is not just a personal goal but a critical factor in maintaining the quality of care at their institutions.
Gaps in the current medical education system
Despite the high demand for upskilling, there are clear obstacles that prevent doctors from engaging in specialised training. One-third of the surveyed doctors pointed to a lack of suitable courses aligned with their professional needs as a major challenge. Financial constraints were also a concern, with 22% citing cost as a barrier to upskilling.
The Indian medical education system, while comprehensive in providing foundational knowledge, often leaves gaps when it comes to practical, hands-on training in specialised areas. “When doctors graduate, particularly MBBS graduates, they are often not fully equipped to handle complex cases independently, especially in emergency situations. On-the-job training becomes crucial for them,” said Mr Ramachandran. This highlights the need for more advanced courses that go beyond the basics taught in medical school.
Moreover, the rapid evolution of medical science means that what was considered cutting-edge a few years ago may now be outdated. For instance, several years ago, the notion of reversing diabetes was met with scepticism. Today, thanks to advancements in treatment protocols and medication, doctors are increasingly treating it as a manageable, even reversible condition.
How technology propels medical upskilling
As the demand for advanced education grows, technology is playing a pivotal role in bridging the skill gap. With the advent of AI-driven platforms and virtual simulations, doctors can now acquire new skills without being physically present in a clinical setting. These platforms allow for the replication of real-life medical scenarios, providing an opportunity for experiential learning without the constraints of location or time.
One key example is the application of digital tools in learning about new surgical techniques or managing lifestyle diseases like diabetes, obesity, and hypertension areas that are often underrepresented in traditional medical curricula. For doctors specialising in fields such as gynaecology or neurology, these tools offer a way to stay updated with emerging treatments, such as infertility therapies or high-risk obstetrics.
