Residency curriculum issues in geriatrics training

Development of a satisfactory geriatrics curriculum in a family practice residency requires realistic planning in light of the residency's resources and integration of geriatrics training activities into a comprehensive system of monitoring residents' educational needs and accomplishments. This paper, drawing on principles of curriculum design and quality improvement, proposes that: 1) goals and objectives define the scope of training; 2) instructional flexibility is essential; 3) evaluation drives the system; 4) residents deserve individualized educational care; and 5) faculty deserve educational skill development.