4-year curriculum for urology residency training.
OBJECTIVE
A standardized curriculum for urology surgical training does not exist at this time. We propose a template for a cognitive and basic skills curriculum to cover the 4 years of urology residency training based on weekly 1-hour, year specific education sessions.


METHODS
Resident scores from the American Urological In-Service Examination were reviewed to assess resident performance before and 6 months after implementation of the 4-year curriculum. Resident and faculty questionnaires were used 6 months after incorporating the curriculum to evaluate the usefulness and value of the new curriculum.


RESULTS
Average In-Service Examination results following the introduction of the 4-year curriculum were 10% to 27% higher than the previous 4 years of examination results. Most residents and faculty considered the weekly learning sessions to be mostly or completely valuable educational experiences.


CONCLUSIONS
The initial experience with a structured 4-year curriculum for urology residency training has been favorable for residents and faculty. This preliminary 4-year urology residency curriculum is presented as a platform for future debate and a catalyst for new thoughts and discussion.
McDougall
Elspeth M
EM
Department of Urology, University of California-Irvine, Orange, California 92868, USA. elspethm@uci.edu
Watters
Teresa J
TJ
Clayman
Ralph V
RV
D000328:Adult; D002140:California; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003479:Curriculum; D004503:Education, Medical, Graduate / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007396:Internship and Residency; D008297:Male; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013997:Time Factors; D014572:Urology / Q000193:education*