Measurement of how well a paediatric training programme prepares graduates for their chosen career paths

To provide a sound basis for modification of our paediatric residency education programme, we surveyed graduates from the past 16 years. The questionnaire was designed to determine the adequacy of training rotations in preparing graduates for their career paths. Questionnaires were mailed to 81 graduates; 73 (90%) replied. A modified version was completed by 27 of 29 current residents (93%). For most rotations, responses were normally distributed. However, 10 or more respondents identified exposure in one area as 'excessive' and in 6 as 'inadequate'. Current residents scored many rotations as 'inadequate', likely indicative of their limited exposure to actual practice. Recommendations were consistent for subjects needing more instruction. All major issues raised by graduates had been identified by faculty, but the substantiation enabled changes to be made with widespread support. We recommend periodic survey of graduates to evaluate how well education is preparing residents for their ultimate career paths.