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Journal clubs. Prevalence, format, and efficacy in PM&R
E A Moberg-Wolff1, J B Kosasih
1Medical College of Wisconsin, Department of PM&R, Milwaukee, USA.
Summary
Journal clubs are prevalent in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) residency programs, primarily for information dissemination. However, enhancing critical analysis and faculty participation is key to improving their educational impact.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Graduate Medical Training
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Background:
- Journal clubs are vital for graduate medical education, fostering critical thinking and disseminating research.
- Limited literature exists on optimizing journal club organization and efficacy.
- Previous studies focused on evaluating literature, not physician practices within journal clubs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence, format, and perceived efficacy of journal clubs in accredited PM&R residency programs.
- To identify key areas for improvement in journal club structure and function.
Main Methods:
- A survey was distributed to chief residents of all accredited PM&R programs.
- Response rate was 89%, providing data on journal club characteristics and perceived outcomes.
Main Results:
- All responding programs (89%) have journal clubs, mainly for disseminating current literature.
- Most journal clubs are department-sponsored, meet monthly, and lack organized critical review methods (76%).
- Poor faculty attendance and limited review of classic/specialty articles were noted concerns; participation did not significantly increase resident reading.
Conclusions:
- PM&R residency journal clubs are common but often lack structured critical analysis and sufficient faculty engagement.
- Improving faculty participation, critical appraisal skills, clinical relevance, and feedback mechanisms can enhance journal club efficacy and satisfaction.