Program Information

Medical Physics Residency Structure and Performance Improvement

P Sansourekidou*, S Kriminski, D Pavord, Health Quest, Poughkeepsie, NY

SU-E-P-7 Sunday 3:00PM - 6:00PM Room: Exhibit Hall

Purpose:
To investigate how structural improvements of the program affect resident's performance and overall program quality.
Methods:
The Medical Physics Residency at Vassar Brothers Medical Center was implemented in 2009. The self study defining sixteen competencies was created in 2010 in accordance with AAPM Report 90. Initially schedule had loosely followed rotations; competency timing was not predetermined. In spring 2012, the residency curriculum was restructured to include a monthly timetable with multiple deadlines with the clearly defined scope of knowledge and number of clinical cases necessary. Competency exams were organized in order of complexity and given proportional and adequate spacing. Additionally, competency exams were changed to follow a presentation-style format with standardized content. The new system was implemented for the class of 2014. Class of 2013 received a similar but more accelerated schedule to ensure graduation. Performance was tracked through Typhon Group LLC, an online student performance tracking system.
Results:
Resident performance was tracked with monthly reports from clinical supervisors on each resident's preparation, engagement and enthusiasm, time management, quality of work, mastery of subject, follow through, punctuality and attendance, physical presentation, and comportment. 2012 class mean was 88.5%, 2013 class mean was 85.7%, and 2014 class mean was 93.3%.
Resident satisfaction on the specific rotation was also tracked with monthly reports on organization, clarity, content, workload and time allocation. 2013 class mean was 84%. 2014 class mean was 93.9%.
Resident's evaluation of clinical supervisors was also performed and included preparation, engagement and enthusiasm, mastery of subject, engagement as a mentor, accessibility and comportment. 2013 class mean was 80.7%, 2014 class mean was 98.9%.
Conclusion:
Improved structure and clear schedule increased resident satisfaction and performance. Future analysis shall include ABR part II and III pass rates as well.

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