Empowering Residents in Community-based Internal Medicine Programs: A Structured Framework Integrating Simulation...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Internal Medicine Residency Training
• Quality Improvement in Healthcare

Background:

• Community-based internal medicine residencies are vital for underserved areas, training nearly half of U.S. residents.
• These programs often experience educational limitations due to resource constraints and fewer training opportunities.
• Addressing these gaps is crucial for maintaining high standards in primary care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and evaluate a comprehensive 12-month quality initiative for internal medicine residents at a community hospital.
• To enhance clinical competency, board readiness, communication skills, and resident well-being.
• To assess the impact of novel educational strategies on resident performance and satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• A 12-month quality initiative involving 27 residents at a community hospital.
• Integration of high-fidelity simulation drills, gamified didactics, enhanced orientation, research education, wellness programs, and AI-driven feedback.
• Interventions were implemented alongside existing educational activities.

Main Results:

• Mean In-Training Examination (ITE) scores increased significantly (p = 0.025), with an 11.8-point rise in percentile rank.
• Patient communication scores (CAHPS) improved from the 66th to the 97th percentile (p < 0.05).
• Resident satisfaction scores (ACGME survey) rose from 70% to 84%, with high reported usefulness of simulation and wellness initiatives.

Conclusions:

• The quality initiative successfully enhanced key educational outcomes for internal medicine residents in a community setting.
• Simulation, gamified learning, and wellness support were highly valued by residents.
• Sustained impact requires ongoing leadership commitment and integration into graduate medical education (GME).