Selection process for psychiatry residents in India: Does it need reorganization?

The selection process for Psychiatry Residency Training Programmes in India is quite different from Western developed nations. The Indian medical graduates are required to take a multiple-choice question based competitive entrance examination that covers all undergraduate subjects for entry to all postgraduate specialties. Residency position allocation is conducted through “counseling” based upon the rank or percentile secured in this examination. This process of resident selection is fraught with certain risks which are discussed. The alternative possible selection systems are also evaluated for their advantages and potential concerns. Residency selection procedure needs are constrained by the practicalities of local resources, social structure, and system of medical education. And changes, if any should be implemented after careful and cautious consideration. The following core competencies are addressed in this article: Systems-based practice, Professionalism, Interpersonal skills and communication.