Methods for working with problem residents in medical physics residency education

Medical physics residency training programs may occasionally encounter residents requiring additional intervention beyond normal training efforts. In the literature, these residents are referred to as "problem" residents. While the physician literature on the subject is valuable, this paper specifically focuses on dealing with a problem medical physics resident. This work discusses a generalized strategy for addressing and correcting medical physics problem resident issues. A discussion of categories of problems that may be encountered is also presented. Additionally, a standardized process for resident intervention is given, along with a discussion of issues related to transparency and bias. Applying the principles in this work should assist medical physics residency programs in establishing a strong culture where all residents, including those experiencing difficulties, can successfully complete their medical physics residency training. This work is a result of collaborations facilitated by the Society of Directors of Academic Medical Physics Programs (SDAMPP).