Needs assessment can guide creation of a "resident-optimized clinic" in surgery

There is limited data on deliberate teaching of residents in the clinic setting; we sought to investigate the clinic experience at our institution and improve education through creation of a novel "Resident-Optimized Clinic" (ROC).

An online survey was sent separately to residents and faculty. Based on the results of this survey a modified ROC was developed to try to improve the obstacles to learning in clinic.

Qualitative analysis revealed the barriers in clinic were inconsistencies in expectations, lack of autonomy, time, and facility limitations. The modified ROC was rated positively with 100% of participants expressing they had sufficient time and autonomy; and 90% felt the environment was optimized for teaching.

Multiple themes have been identified as problematic for the clinic education experience. The ROC was rated positively by trainees suggesting thoughtful intervention to improve clinic results in a better clinic experience and more educational gain from the clinic environment.