Competency-based evaluation tools for integrative medicine training in family medicine residency: a pilot study
2007

Competency-based evaluation tools for integrative medicine training in family medicine residency

Sample size: 11 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Kligler Benjamin, Koithan Mary, Maizes Victoria, Hayes Meg, Schneider Craig, Lebensohn Patricia, Hadley Susan

Primary Institution: University of Arizona School of Medicine Program in Integrative Medicine

Hypothesis

The study aims to develop and test competency-based evaluation tools for assessing residents' skills in integrative medicine.

Conclusion

The developed tools will improve teaching in the Integrative Family Medicine program and serve as evaluation resources for family medicine residency programs incorporating integrative medicine.

Supporting Evidence

  • The study identified weaknesses in residents' performance in areas such as spirituality and treatment recommendation communication.
  • Direct observation and treatment plan evaluation tools were developed to assess competencies in integrative medicine.
  • Results indicated a need for more training in assessing readiness for change and delivering integrative medicine recommendations.

Takeaway

This study created tools to help doctors in training learn how to better take care of patients using both traditional and alternative medicine.

Methodology

The study implemented direct observation and treatment plan evaluation tools across six residency sites during the PGY-4 year, along with Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs).

Potential Biases

Potential observer bias in evaluating competencies due to the subjective nature of the assessment tools.

Limitations

The small sample size and variability across sites may affect the reliability of the results.

Participant Demographics

Residents from six family medicine residency programs participating in the Integrative Family Medicine pilot program.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1472-6920-7-7

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