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Surgical Pathology "Boot Camp": A Military Experience
Nathaniel E Smith1, Ryan Collins1, Jordan Hall1
1From the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Services, Brooke Army Medical Center, Fort Sam Houston, Texas.
Archives of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine
|March 28, 2019
Summary
A 4-week surgical pathology boot camp significantly improved pathology resident skills and knowledge. This intensive training accelerated the transition from medical student to competent resident, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and performance.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Pathology Training
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Incoming pathology residents exhibit variable competency levels due to reduced preclinical pathology coursework.
- Accelerating the transition from medical student to pathology resident is crucial, especially in military settings requiring early autonomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To implement and evaluate a 4-week surgical pathology "boot camp" for new residents.
- To assess the boot camp's impact on pathology knowledge, practical skills, and diagnostic performance.
Main Methods:
- Interns underwent assessments in pathology knowledge and slide practicals, alongside a skills self-assessment.
- Supervised grossing, daily didactic sessions, and intern-led gross conferences were conducted.
- Post-boot camp performance was evaluated through monthly slide practicals and faculty diagnostic agreement.
Main Results:
- Knowledge assessment scores increased from 36.0% to 80.0% (P < .001).
- Slide practical scores improved from 32% to 74.0% (P < .001), with global self-assessed skill enhancement.
- Postgraduate Year 1 residents matched the performance of current Postgraduate Year 2 residents.
Conclusions:
- A 4-week surgical pathology boot camp effectively transitioned medical students to pathology residents.
- The tailored rotation significantly improved resident competency and readiness for independent practice.