Exploring the Attributes of Exemplary Facilitators in Family Medicine Residencies: Implications for Practice...

Facilitation is common in the era of practice transformation. Much of the literature on practice facilitators focuses on the role of external facilitators who come into a practice to aid in practice transformation efforts. Our study sought to better understand the attributes of exemplary facilitators.

We conducted 10 structured interviews in four family medicine residencies.

Program directors easily identified internal staff who serve informally as exemplary facilitators. Despite varying jobs, they possess seven identifiable attributes within three broad domains: task orientation, relational skills, and emotional intelligence.

Given the increasing cost of practice transformation and the finite resources in many clinics, this study can help leaders identify current employees best suited for facilitation.