Implementation of a phased onboarding program for novice advanced practice providers

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Advanced Practice Providers
• Pediatric Otolaryngology

Background:

• Advanced practice providers (APPs) often transition from general training to specialized fields like pediatric otolaryngology (ENT).
• Novice APPs require comprehensive onboarding to manage complex pediatric ENT patients effectively.
• Existing APP onboarding programs are frequently inconsistent and inadequate.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a standardized, phased onboarding program for novice APPs in pediatric otolaryngology.
• To facilitate a successful transition to practice for new APPs in a specialized academic setting.

Main Methods:

• A phased onboarding tool was created and piloted with a new APP.
• The program involves four phases with scheduled feedback sessions.
• Competency metrics were established to track APP progress towards defined patient care goals.

Main Results:

• A novel phased onboarding and orientation program tailored for pediatric ENT was developed.
• The program aims for novice APPs to complete orientation in approximately six months.
• Lessons learned during the development and piloting of the program are shared.

Conclusions:

• Standardized onboarding is crucial for a successful APP transition into practice.
• The developed onboarding tool is adaptable for other pediatric otolaryngology practices.
• This program can be implemented across various medical specialties requiring specialized APP training.