Implementation of a competency-based residency curriculum: experiences from a resource-limited environment in the Caribbean.
BACKGROUND
The introduction of competency-based curricula in institutions situated in resource-limited environments is likely to pose new challenges for the implementation process. The St. Elisabeth Hospital (SEHOS) in Curacao, Dutch Caribbean, is affiliated to university teaching hospitals in the Netherlands. It is a teaching hospital in a resource-limited environment.


OBJECTIVE
Following the revision of the curriculum of the Dutch paediatric residency training, the country's paediatric society mandated its implementation in all training institutions within Dutch sovereignty. We set out to implement the revised curriculum in SEHOS and highlight the benefits it may have in a setting like Curacao.


METHODS
The intended learning outcomes for the 16-week project were (1) the implementation of the core changes in the curriculum and (2) conduct an assessment of the learning environment. The strategies used included informative meetings, workshop and lecture-based trainings, questionnaire surveys, and focus group interviews.


RESULTS
Registrars and staff were successfully trained in how to use brief clinical assessments and digital portfolios. 'Departmental portfolio' was introduced as an innovative method of evaluating and monitoring departmental educational activities.


CONCLUSIONS
Competency-based curricula can be successfully implemented in resource-limited environments. Educational experts in the local setting are crucial for the success of the process.
Busari
Jamiu O
JO
Department of Paediatrics, Atrium Medical Centre, Heerlen, The Netherlands. j.busari@atriummc.nl
Verhagen
Eduard A A
EA
Muskiet
Fred D
FD
Duits
Ashley J
AJ
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003162:Competency-Based Education / Q000379:methods*; D003906:Developing Countries; D004500:Education, Graduate / Q000379:methods*; D006784:Hospitals, Teaching; D006801:Humans; D007396:Internship and Residency; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D009427:Netherlands Antilles; D010372:Pediatrics / Q000193:education*; D010465:Perception