Development of a Web-based resident profiling tool to support training in practice-based learning and improvement

J Gen Intern Med. 2008 Apr;23(4):485-8. doi: 10.1007/s11606-007-0467-y.

Abstract

Multiple factors are driving residency programs to explicitly address practice-based learning and improvement (PBLI), yet few information systems exist to facilitate such training. We developed, implemented, and evaluated a Web-based tool that provides Internal Medicine residents at the University of Virginia Health System with population-based reports about their ambulatory clinical experiences. Residents use Systems and Practice Analysis for Resident Competencies (SPARC) to identify potential areas for practice improvement. Thirty-three (65%) of 51 residents completed a survey assessing SPARC's usefulness, with 94% agreeing that it was a useful educational tool. Twenty-six residents (51%) completed a before-after study indicating increased agreement (5-point Likert scale, with 5=strongly agree) with statements regarding confidence in ability to access population-based data about chronic disease management (mean [SD] 2.5 [1.2] vs. 4.5 [0.5], p < .001, sign test) and information comparing their practice style to that of their peers (2.2 [1.2] vs. 4.6 [0.5], p < .001).

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Academic Medical Centers
  • Clinical Competence*
  • Education, Medical, Graduate*
  • Hospital Information Systems
  • Humans
  • Internal Medicine*
  • Internet*
  • Internship and Residency
  • Medical Audit
  • Problem-Based Learning / methods*
  • Professional Competence
  • Quality Assurance, Health Care / methods*
  • Software
  • Virginia