Training psychiatry residents in quality improvement: an integrated, year-long curriculum

OBJECTIVE The authors describe a curriculum for psychiatry residents in Quality Improvement (QI) methodology. METHODS All PGY3 residents (N=12) participated in a QI curriculum that included a year-long group project. Knowledge and attitudes were assessed before and after the curriculum, using a modified Quality Improvement Knowledge Assessment Tool (QIKAT) and a QI Self-Assessment survey. RESULTS QIKAT scores were significantly higher for residents after participating in the curriculum when compared with pretest scores. Self-efficacy ratings in QI improved after the course for each item. Residents demonstrated gains in QI skills through participation in the group projects in which they increased rates of depression-screening and monitoring in an outpatient clinic. CONCLUSIONS Combining didactic and experiential learning can be an effective means for training psychiatry residents in QI.