A managed care curriculum: developing a managed care curriculum for primary care residents

Managed care in its numerous forms is continuing to change the face of the healthcare system in the United States. IMPACT OF MANAGED CARE ON MEDICAL EDUCATION: As managed care continues to invade the market, it has a substantial influence in shaping the parameters of graduate medical education. Various surveys have shown that residents are under-trained in managed care principles and practice. There is a clear need for a residency curriculum that fully prepares students to keep pace with modern markets. EDUCATIONAL METHODOLOGY: This manuscript describes a curriculum which emphasizes the role of the primary care physician, cost-effective practice, multidisciplinary practice and evidenced-based strategies. Educational methods and concepts presented here are based on the recommendations of healthcare educators, extensive literature searches and United States advisory panels. After the curriculum is completed, the resident will: 1. Practice cost-effectively under 100% capitation and learn proper risk management. 2. Utilize epidemiological thinking and community-oriented primary care. 3. Function as a part of healthcare team and understand how to achieve cost-effective care for patients. 4. Practice the principles of continuous quality improvement and assess patient satisfaction. 5. Practice and adopt evidence-based medicine and guidelines. 6. Become skilled with computers including facility with literature searches, databases and the internet. 7. Practice a full spectrum of primary care emphasizing patient education and psychosocial health. 8. Understand the ethical issues pertinent to managed care practices.

The residency curriculum committee will evaluate the managed care curricular elements on an on-going basis.

This comprehensive curriculum for primary care residents can help ensure success in the new healthcare marketplace.