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Positive effects of a clinical performance assessment program
P L Stillman1, H L Haley, M B Regan
1Standardized Patient Program, University of Massachusetts Medical Center, Worcester 01655.
Summary
A clinical performance assessment program for medical students improved clinical skills through increased faculty observation and feedback. This initiative enhanced student learning and faculty engagement in medical education.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Clinical Skills Assessment
Background:
- The University of Massachusetts Medical School implemented a clinical performance assessment program in 1986 for fourth-year students.
- The program involved standardized patient (SP) interactions, electrocardiogram interpretation, and X-ray interpretation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of a long-standing clinical performance assessment program on medical student training.
- To assess changes in faculty observation and feedback provided to students over time.
Main Methods:
- The program utilized standardized patients (SPs) for performance evaluations.
- Data collected included SP checklists, rating forms, and student-completed paperwork.
- Student self-reports on faculty observation frequency were collected since 1986.
Main Results:
- Student-reported faculty observation during patient interactions has markedly increased since 1986.
- Increased feedback from attending faculty during and after clinical rotations was observed starting in 1989.
- Faculty made a conscious effort to enhance students' clinical skills through observation and feedback.
Conclusions:
- The clinical performance assessment program has been associated with increased faculty observation and feedback.
- These changes indicate a faculty commitment to improving medical students' clinical skills.
- The program has likely contributed to enhanced clinical skill development in medical students.