The Evolution of Resident Remedial Teaching at One Institution

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Graduate Medical Education
• Learner Support

Background:

• Residency programs dedicate significant resources to remedial teaching for underperforming learners.
• Struggling residents often face probation or focused review letters.
• A need exists for structured support systems in medical training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development of a centralized remediation program at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.
• To evaluate the outcomes of this program for at-risk residents.
• To explore factors contributing to improved resident performance.

Main Methods:

• Centralized learner assessment and individualized teaching were implemented.
• The program focused on residents on probation or receiving focused review letters.
• Data on probation rates, graduation, and board certification were analyzed.

Main Results:

• A decrease in the number of residents placed on probation was observed.
• An increase in the graduation and board certification rates for residents in the program was noted.
• The program successfully consolidated expertise and resources for struggling learners.

Conclusions:

• Centralized remediation programs can effectively improve outcomes for at-risk medical residents.
• Individualized teaching and assessment are key components of successful remediation.
• These programs contribute to a more successful physician workforce.