Managing and communicating information in a new era

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Health Informatics
• Family Medicine

Background:

• Family physician faculty require proficiency in technology for information management and written communication.
• Managed care environments necessitate integrated communication and technology skills in research and education.
• Effective information management and sharing are crucial, linking computer and written communication competencies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review literature on essential competencies for faculty in information management and communication.
• To evaluate faculty preparation methods and their effectiveness.
• To propose revised competencies and faculty development recommendations for managed care.

Main Methods:

• Literature synthesis on faculty competencies in communication and information technology.
• Analysis of existing faculty development strategies.
• Identification of gaps in current literature and practices.

Main Results:

• Technology significantly impacts how family physicians practice, teach, and research.
• Written communication remains a primary method for information dissemination.
• Gaps exist in faculty development specific to information technology and communication.

Conclusions:

• Revised competencies are needed for faculty to effectively manage and communicate information in managed care.
• Faculty development programs should emphasize information technology and written communication skills.
• Addressing these competencies is vital for advancing family medicine practice and education.