Business Education for Residents: Results of a Pilot Business Course at a Urology Residency Program

We evaluate the effect of a mini-MBA (master of business administration) course to improve the business acumen of residents.

A constructed survey and questionnaire were administered to all attendees of the mini-MBA curriculum developed at our institution. The course was developed and taught by a senior faculty member with lengthy business experience who holds a major administrative role within our institution. A pre-test and a post-test, comprised of 10 questions each, were conducted at the time of each lecture. A survey was provided at the end of the 6-session course. Descriptive statistics were used to assess participants' attitudes toward business education.

Average attendance was 14 to 15 people per session. The majority of participants were involved in an academic practice setting (94%). Residents (77%) comprised the majority of the survey respondents, and the specialties represented included urology, pediatrics and obstetrics/gynecology. Only 11% of participants had any significant prior background business knowledge but an overwhelming majority believed that business acumen was important for the graduating physician. In all sessions the post-test results were higher than the pre-test results, with significance seen for the last 2 tests.

The changing dynamics of health care require a balance among clinical care, leadership and business administration. Background business knowledge can accelerate learning for new graduates and address a perceived need seen by physicians at all levels of training.