Assessing the competencies in general surgery residency training.
BACKGROUND
Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) competencies have increased the focus on education. A 1-year study of observational assessments was conducted.


METHODS
"Point of Observation" evaluations were completed by faculty for postgraduate year (PGY) I and II surgery residents. Resident procedures and patient office visits were rated in 9 categories, using a Likert scale. Interns were expected to perform at a novice level (0-30%) and PGY II residents at an advanced level, with improvements expected.


RESULTS
PGY I and II residents showed overall improved scores (12% and 6%, respectively) over 1 year. Intern improvements in 9 categories were linear, ranging from 0% to 48%. PGY II resident scores were more variable, with improvements noted in 6 categories ranging from 10% to 30%. Three categories declined in scores, ranging from 2% to 18%.


CONCLUSIONS
Competencies bring emphasis to education and measurable outcomes. Early efforts have proven valuable in identifying curriculum and learning needs.
Anderson
Cheryl I
CI
Department of Surgery, Michigan State University, 1200 E. Michigan Ave., Ste. 655, Lansing, MI 48912, USA. cheryl.anderson@ht.msu.edu
Jentz
Amy B
AB
Harkema
James M
JM
Kareti
L Rao
LR
Apelgren
Keith N
KN
Slomski
Carol A
CA
D002983:Clinical Competence; D013502:General Surgery / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans; D007396:Internship and Residency; D013514:Surgical Procedures, Operative / Q000193:education*