title: Evaluation and comparison of a 1-month versus a 2-week community pediatrics and advocacy rotation for pediatric residents.
abstract: This prospective study was conducted to assess the effects of a 4-week community pediatrics and advocacy rotation with a unique project (Curriculum A), a 2-week community pediatrics rotation with advocacy training and unique project throughout residency (Curriculum B), or no curriculum exposure on residents' attitudes, perceived competence, knowledge, and behaviors. A 27-item questionnaire was used to assess attitudes, competence, and knowledge. Examination of residents' patients' use of Early Intervention services during the 5-year period after curricula introduction assessed behaviors. Seventy percent of questionnaires distributed over several years were completed by 105 of 111 eligible residents. Residents exposed to Curriculum A or B demonstrated improved competence and knowledge but no significant increase in positive attitudes toward community pediatrics and advocacy. Residents' patients' use of Early Intervention services increased 65% during the 5-year period after curriculum introduction. No significant differences in outcome measures were observed between Curriculum A and Curriculum B.
authors.affiliation: CARES Institute, Department of Pediatrics, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, New Jersey 08084, USA. delagocw@umdnj.edu
authors.forename: Cynthia
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Delago
authors.forename: Edward
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Gracely
mesh_terms: D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003154:Community Medicine / Q000193:education*; D003479:Curriculum; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007396:Internship and Residency; D008297:Male; D010372:Pediatrics / Q000193:education*; D010561:Personnel Staffing and Scheduling; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires