Initial experiences in embedding core competency education in entry-level surgery residents through a nonclinical...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Healthcare Systems

Background:

• Healthcare complexity is increasing, challenging residents' understanding of its impact on professional activities.
• Integrating core competencies into surgical residency programs presents a significant hurdle for program directors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel nonclinical rotation for first-year surgical residents (PGY-1).
• To enhance residents' understanding and application of the six core competencies within a structured curriculum.

Main Methods:

• Implemented a multifaceted, largely self-directed curriculum for PGY-1 surgical residents.
• Integrated all six core competencies into the rotation's learning experiences.
• Utilized posttesting strategies to ensure competency achievement before rotation credit.

Main Results:

• Residents uniformly exceeded satisfactory scores on objective assessments.
• Demonstrated a significant, at least short-term, increase in understanding across all assessed competency areas.

Conclusions:

• The dedicated rotation successfully addressed the need for foundational training in systems-based practice.
• The program incorporated diverse learning environments (EMS, sentinel events, hospice) and research projects.
• This competency-focused rotation offers an innovative and engaging method for teaching essential professional elements.