The Future of Our Specialty: Selecting and Training Residents in 2011

Abstract

Program Description: Otolaryngology programs continue to attract some of the best medical student applicants, but there have been increasing challenges placed on residency training. ACGME, medico-legal, public expectations, and financial pressures have changed the methods in which we train residents. This miniseminar will involve an expert panel discussion of the evolving aspects of otolaryngology residency training, which will expand into a town hall–type format using the audience response system and a roaming microphone for active audience contribution. The panel will include initiating perspectives from the ACGME RRC Executive Director, President of the Otolaryngology Program Directors Organization, members of the ABOto Education Council, an Associate Dean for GME and seasoned Program Directors. The discussion will focus on the important decision steps of both the residency applicant and program in the course of training: 1) How to select the right residency program applicant, including what is known and being studied with regard to resident performance and outcomes. 2) A review of match statistics including how we compare with other competing specialties that our applicants consider. 3) The here and now in terms of the new accreditation and duty hour rules, and what remains in the near future for program accreditation (milestones, etc). What does the average otolaryngology program look like (current program accreditation statistics), and what are some best practice solutions to adapt to the changing environment. 4) The use of the In-training examination by programs and residents in preparation for the board certification and re-certification.

Educational Objectives: 1) Learn to improve a program’s resident applicant selection process to maximize resident performance and outcomes. 2) Understand how a program’s match and accreditation outcomes compare nationally. 3) Understand the current and future expectations for program accreditation and training.