Competency-based time-variable training internationally: Ensuring practical next steps in the wake of the COVID-19...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Graduate Medical Education
• Health Professions Education

Background:

• Competency-based medical education (CBME) has been proposed for decades, promising training progression based on readiness rather than fixed durations.
• Implementing time variability in CBME presents significant logistical challenges for medical education and healthcare systems.
• A gradual, evolutionary approach to competency-based, time-variable (CBTV) training is proposed to overcome implementation hurdles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the feasibility of advancing toward realistic competency-based, time-variable (CBTV) training.
• To provide examples of successful CBTV training initiatives.
• To outline key features for initial steps in implementing CBTV training.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature and case studies on competency-based medical education.
• Analysis of logistical challenges associated with time variability in medical training.
• Development of a framework for incremental implementation of CBTV training.

Main Results:

• Successful examples of CBTV training demonstrate its practical application.
• Key features for initial implementation include phased integration and stakeholder buy-in.
• Gradual evolution within existing structures is a viable path toward realistic CBTV training.

Conclusions:

• Incremental implementation of competency-based, time-variable (CBTV) training is feasible.
• A phased approach allows institutions to adapt to CBTV principles without immediate, systemic overhauls.
• This strategy benefits learners, supervisors, and patient care by optimizing training progression.