Anatomy in the new era : perception of a cross section of anatomists

Abstract

Background and aims: Anatomy is one of the founding pillars of Medical Science. However, it has a poor preference as a career choice among the medical graduates. This can be attributed to the traditional concept in the minds of the people that it is a subject concerned mainly with cadaver dissection and teaching. This study is therefore aimed at understanding the general perception of anatomists about their subject and analyzing their suggestions for bringing about a positive change in attitude towards the subject. Materials and methods: A cross sectional study was conducted through a questionnaire that was completed by Anatomy faculty and postgraduate students from different parts of India. The study tried to understand the perspective of anatomists towards their subject and give some suggestions to bring about a change. Results: It was seen that Anatomy was the favorite basic science subject among most anatomists. Yet, most of them did not readily take it up as a career option. Participants also came up with various suggestions like the need to introduce superspeciality courses, more clinical application, systematization of research, promotion of fundings and the need to make Anatomy a part of Government’s health education programmes. Conclusion: Anatomists across the country are wishing to have a more active role in the fast changing world. For this, anatomists need to come out of the traditional ways.

Keywords

• anatomy
• career
• research
• superspeciality
• awareness