Improving the efficiency of selection to Core Medical Training: a study of the use of multiple assessment stations.
OBJECTIVE
To compare three separate assessment stations used for selection to Core Medical Training (CMT) and to determine the effect of reducing the number from three to two.


METHODS
Quantitative analysis of candidates' assessment station scores, financial analysis of costs of the selection process and quantitative and qualitative surveys of candidates and assessors.


RESULTS
The assessment stations used for selection to CMT were reliable and valid for assessing suitability for employment as a CMT trainee. There was no significant difference in candidate ranking if only two assessment stations were used rather than three, i.e. there was no change in the likelihood of receiving a job offer. All of the assessment stations were perceived to have face validity by candidates and assessors. The efficiency of the selection process could be improved without loss of quality if two stations were used rather than three.


CONCLUSIONS
Using two assessment stations rather than three would appear to improve the efficiency and maintain the quality of the CMT selection process while reducing costs.
ST6 Acute Medicine, North Tees General Hospital, Stockton-on-Tees, UK.
J M
JM
Atkinson
E
E
Tullo
H
H
Mitchison
M S
MS
Pearce
N
N
Kumar
D003365:Costs and Cost Analysis; D004503:Education, Medical, Graduate; D004521:Educational Measurement / Q000191:economics / Q000592:standards*; D004651:Employment; D006801:Humans; D011786:Quality Control; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012570:School Admission Criteria