Where are they Now: a 5-year follow-up survey study of Graduates of a Pediatric Medical Education Advanced Competency

Many physicians have professional identities in non-clinical areas, and residency training provides opportunity for further development in these areas. We measured the longer-term outcomes for participants in a pediatric medical education advanced competency (MEAC).

We conducted a survey of five years of graduates of our pediatric residency MEAC. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Free-text questions were analyzed for recurrent topics or themes.

Response rate was 65% (45/69). Of 32 respondents with fellowship training, 84% (27/32) had formal or informal educator roles in fellowship, while 44% (14/32) did a medical education project in fellowship. Of 35 attending physician respondents, 66% (23/35) had formal educator roles, 63% (22/35) had informal educator roles. Respondents reported involvement in many forms of medical education scholarship. A majority, 89% (40/45) and 87% (39/45), respectively, felt the MEAC contributed some or a great deal to preparation for and success in educator roles after residency. In analysis of free-text questions, participants expressed the MEAC's positive impact on career trajectory and skill development.

Our survey participants reported that a MEAC promoted educator skill and role development in pediatric residents and may lay groundwork for careers in medical education leadership and scholarship.