A multimodal approach improves American Board of Surgery In-Training Examination scores

There are several factors that influence ABSITE scores, but the optimal approach for remediation of poor scores is unclear.

A structured academic curriculum and focused remediation program (FRP) were implemented to improve academic performances. Within a 15-year period, ABSITE and American Board of Surgery qualifying exam (ABS QE) results were compared before and after the establishment of the program using a paired T-test. Subgroup analysis was performed for residents who completed the FRP.

After establishing the FRP, the mean scores increased from 49.3% to 60% (p = 0.001). The proportion of first-time pass rates for the ABS QE increased from 89.5% to 100% (p = 0.18). With the subgroup analysis of FRP residents, the average improvement on the next ABSITE exam score was 51 percentile points (p = 0.003), raw score increased by 80 (p = 0.01) and percent correct increased by 7 percentage points (p = 0.006).

A structured academic curriculum and FRP improves ABSITE scores. Additional strategies utilizing the self-regulated learning method can further assist trainees who remain struggling learners. Further study is required to determine direct correlation to the ABS QE.