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Apheresis education in Canadian residency programs: A needs assessment
Amanda Li1, Katerina Pavenski2, Kevin H M Kuo3
1Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Summary
Apheresis training for Canadian residents is inconsistent, with most feeling unprepared for independent practice. A standardized curriculum is needed to improve apheresis knowledge and competence for future healthcare professionals.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Hematology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Therapeutic and donor apheresis applications are expanding into new medical fields.
- Current apheresis education within residency programs is varied, potentially impacting clinician confidence and competence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate Canadian clinicians' perceptions of their apheresis training.
- To identify the need for a structured apheresis education within residency curricula.
Main Methods:
- A 22-question survey was administered to recent Canadian graduates (2013-2017) from hematology, nephrology, transfusion medicine, and hematologic pathology.
- Survey responses were collected using a Likert scale to assess perceptions of apheresis training.
Main Results:
- A 32% response rate yielded 57 valid surveys.
- While 68% reported some apheresis exposure, only 23% had a formal rotation.
- Only 40% found apheresis education time sufficient, and just 7% felt confident in independent apheresis care post-training.
Conclusions:
- Findings indicate a significant gap in apheresis training for residents.
- A unified, dedicated apheresis curriculum is recommended to enhance trainee knowledge, competence, and preparedness for practice.