A Cross-sectional Study on the Knowledge and Awareness among Medical Interns, Resident Doctors, and Faculty Members about Handling Medicolegal Cases in a Medical College of Northern India

Abstract Introduction: In this era of paradigm shift of violence against doctors and medical professionals, it is imperative to educate them about the legal aspect to practice of medicine that will protect them from facing criticism, uphold ethical practices, and encourage doctors to manage potential legal challenges in their day-to-day practice effectively. This study will provide us with valuable insights into the current understanding of medicolegal issues, especially among our junior doctors. It will also help in identifying areas where further education and training are needed. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study among 174 participants was conducted using structured questionnaires and the results were summarized and analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 with descriptive analysis. Results: A significant proportion of the participants demonstrated a good understanding of MLC and the necessary precautions to avoid involvement. Most of the participants had good knowledge about basic understanding of MLC, different MLC scenarios, medicolegal report preparation but a majority of them failed to acknowledge the same in terms of sexual assault cases and certain aspects of consent taking. Conclusion: The study found that there was lack of comprehensive understanding about MLC in some participating doctors. Hence, actions are required in specific areas of medicolegal understanding where a significant gap of knowledge was seen. Measures such as periodic continuing medical education and workshop sessions on medical law and ethics can be organized to ensure that all the doctors from interns to faculty members feel confident to handle their medicolegal issues.