ASSESSMENT OF COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT IN A NEW CURRICULUM AT COLLEGE OF MEDICINE, UNIVERSITY OF BISHA, SAUDI ARABIA

Introduction: Health institution has a vital role in community empowerment process to promote the participation of people, organizations and communities. The aim of this study was to review the innovative curriculum features of Bisha University College of Medicine (UBCOM) and its intended role in empowering local community in Southern of Saudi Arabia. Methods: It was a qualitative descriptive study for UBCOM curriculum and its main feature. UBCOM adopting problem based innovative curriculum was based on the southern Saudi community need. Data regarding the curriculum and relevant data were obtained from the college information canter. The small group discussion included four experts. The overall assessment for the relevant domains and items were obtained and statically analyzed. Results: Bisha University College of medicine committed to graduate competent, accountable and lifelong learner physicians, through the “BISHA” model. These concepts were translated to real medical education program, adopted with promising outcome. UBCOM intended to have significant and direct impact on the health care needs of the community and region. It will share in community empowerment and established strong network and collaborators. The overall assessment by the four experts gave scores for three relevant domains in related to innovation and community empowerment was scored 73.7 %. Conclusion: The curriculum of College of Medicine University of Bisha is directed to graduate doctors to strength community empowerment and social attachment and accountability.