Learner Handoffs Within Clinical Rotations: From the Resident Perspective

Competency-based medical education relies on repeated longitudinal assessments of learners. Frequent attending physician transitions within clinical rotations present a significant barrier to the educational continuity required in competency-based medical education. Learner handoffs (LHs), or the transfer of information regarding learners on a team among faculty supervisors, is a potential solution. Although literature is available on educational leader and clinical faculty perspectives on LHs, perspectives of the learners have been less well described.

This qualitative study used thematic analysis of pediatric resident focus groups from 3 programs of varying size and geographic location from July to December 2021. Two authors independently read the first 3 transcripts to generate a codebook and then coded the remaining transcripts independently to ensure thematic saturation. Emerging themes were discussed and revised until a consensus was achieved.

Forty-four pediatric residents from 3 programs participated in 8 focus groups. Themes were identified regarding LHs' positive impact on the (1) learner, (2) clinical practice, and (3) learning environment. Participants described numerous positive benefits to their own development, team functioning, trust, and patient safety. This experience was counterbalanced by risk of bias in the current LH context. Suggestions for the implementation of a structured LH framework were provided, with a focus on the content ( what information), process ( who is involved), and format ( how is it delivered) of LHs. Participants believed that the creation of a structured LH tool may mitigate perceived challenges, including bias and lack of transparency.

Residents recognize potential benefits to learners themselves, their clinical practice, and their learning environment through LHs but express concerns regarding further propagating bias. The development of a structured and learner-centered LH tool could accelerate learner professional development while mitigating perceived challenges. Future research should define essential components of an LH model with input from all key stakeholders.