Resident and program characteristics that impact performance on the Ophthalmic Knowledge Assessment Program (OKAP).

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Education
• Resident Assessment

Background:

• Assessing ophthalmic knowledge in residents is crucial for evaluating training effectiveness.
• The Ophthalmic Knowledge Assessment Program (OKAP) is a key metric for resident performance.
• Identifying factors influencing OKAP scores can optimize resident education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify resident and program characteristics associated with Ophthalmic Knowledge Assessment Program (OKAP) performance.
• To explore predictors of high OKAP scores among ophthalmology residents.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was distributed to US ophthalmology residents who participated in the April 2017 OKAP.
• Data collected included self-reported study habits, learning resources, and demographic information.
• Statistical analyses, including multivariable analysis, were used to correlate survey responses with OKAP performance.

Main Results:

• A 13.8% response rate was achieved (192/1387 residents).
• Increased study hours, use of online question banks, program-provided review sessions, and OKAP-specific didactics positively correlated with OKAP performance.
• Higher USMLE Step 1 scores, program incentives, increased study hours, and fewer research hours prior to the exam predicted higher OKAP scores (≥75th percentile).
• Residents who did not primarily rely on group study sessions tended to score higher.

Conclusions:

• Residency programs can enhance resident OKAP scores by offering incentives, ensuring access to online learning resources, and tailoring curricula to OKAP content.
• USMLE Step 1 scores may serve as an early indicator for identifying residents who may benefit from additional support to improve OKAP performance.