Designing structured postgraduate training programs using agile methods

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Healthcare Management
• Training Program Development

Background:

• Structured postgraduate medical training is mandated by guidelines like ACGME in the U.S.
• Germany's "Standard Framework for Postgraduate Medical Training" (Musterweiterbildungsordnung) provides a basis for structured training.
• Current program development is often slow, top-down, and neglects trainee needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the effectiveness of agile working in creating and implementing a novel postgraduate medical training program.
• To develop a high-quality, structured, and reliable postgraduate training program (ped.tracks).
• To offer trainees a choice between scientific or clinical education priorities.

Main Methods:

• Application of agile working methodologies for rapid program development.
• Creation of a trainee-customized and trainee-centered program.
• Iterative development process from initial draft to full program release.

Main Results:

• The ped.tracks postgraduate training program was successfully developed and implemented within 8 months.
• Agile methods facilitated efficient and rapid creation of the training program.
• The program is designed to be trainee-centered, focusing on their needs and experiences.

Conclusions:

• Agile working is a highly effective approach for the rapid and efficient creation and implementation of structured postgraduate medical training programs.
• This methodology can significantly improve training quality and employee satisfaction in medical education.
• Agile methods offer a valuable tool for program directors to quickly develop and enhance training programs in Germany and Europe.