The current state of esophagogastroduodenoscopy training in family practice residency programs

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is a useful diagnostic procedure to evaluate patients with upper gastrointestinal complaints. Although family physicians have demonstrated that they can competently perform EGD, only a minority of family physicians perform EGD. This study determined the current state of EGD training in US family practice residency programs and how often graduating residents seek EGD privileges.

We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study surveying program directors from all Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-approved family practice residency programs regarding EGD training in their program.

Of the 471 surveys mailed, 441 (94%) were returned. A total of 143 (32%) program directors reported that their program offered EGD training, but only 58 (13%) actually trained at least one resident. Residents performed a mean of 20 +/- 2.4 EGDs per resident, and residents trained by family physicians performed more EGDs than residents trained by other specialties. In July 2000, .04% of graduating family practice residents sought credentials for EGD, and their training occurred in 32 (7%) residency programs.

Only a minority of family practice residents seek credentialing after residency to perform EGD.