Strategic planning for residency training programs

Residency training is practice-based learning that is reflective of the practice environment. As practice changes, changes in residency training are needed. Strategic planning is a process that considers internal and external factors that will impact the future. The planning process includes gathering input, focusing on important issues, developing a consensus, and writing clearly defined goals. The strategic planning process was applied to residency training at Hamot Medical Center. A retreat was held, consensus was developed, and a plan was written. The planning process prepared us to make changes in the types of residency programs we offered. This article describes strategic planning for our residency and progress on our goals.