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Evaluating the Texas Statewide Family Practice Preceptorship Program, 1992-2000
Linda Z Nieman1, Lewis E Foxhall, Alice Z Chuang
1Department of Family Practice and Community Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, USA. Linda.Z.Nieman@uth.tmc.edu
Summary
Participation in the Texas Statewide Family Practice Preceptorship Program (TSFPPP) significantly increases medical students' likelihood of choosing family practice residencies. This program positively impacts primary care specialty selection.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Primary Care Physician Training
- Health Workforce Development
Background:
- The Texas Statewide Family Practice Preceptorship Program (TSFPPP) has aimed to boost family practice residency choices since 1979.
- Evaluating program efficacy is crucial for understanding its impact on physician specialty selection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of the TSFPPP in increasing the number of medical students selecting family practice residencies.
- To assess the TSFPPP's impact based on program user-identified outcomes from eight Texas medical schools.
Main Methods:
- A comparative analysis of 10,081 Texas medical school graduates (1992-2000).
- Examined residency choices (family practice and other primary care) based on TSFPPP participation (preclinical, clinical, or both).
Main Results:
- TSFPPP participants showed a significantly higher proportion choosing family practice residencies compared to nonparticipants.
- Participation at preclinical, clinical, or both levels was associated with increased odds of selecting family practice (ORs ranging from 1.62 to 4.98).
- A 44% increase in preceptors willing to mentor medical students was observed.
Conclusions:
- The TSFPPP is demonstrably associated with a greater likelihood of medical students choosing family practice residencies.
- This interinstitutional approach highlights the importance of preceptorships in addressing primary care needs and potentially influencing the state's healthcare system.