Residents' treatment of clinic patients beyond graduation

Twenty-one of 24 psychiatrists surveyed report that 51% (n=56) of their clinic patient panel entered their private care after they completed residency training. Patients with a DSM-III personality or depressive disorder were more likely than those with schizophrenia to continue in private treatment (p<.001). The practice of continued treatment of clinic patients beyond residency is reported to aid the professional development of the psychiatrist and the quality of patient care. Residency program directors may consider recommending this practice, if it is appropriate in their institution, to facilitate the psychiatrist's transition from training to career.