(Med) Resident Satisfaction in Canadian Pediatric Resident Continuity Clinics

Abstract

BACKGROUND Resident continuity clinics (RCCs) provide an opportunity for residents to gain experience with longitudinal care in an outpatient setting. RCCs have become a part of almost all recognized residency training programs across specialties in North America. However, the structure, function, and effectiveness of RCCs vary widely. OBJECTIVES To determine resident perspective on the structure and function of paediatric RCCs and investigate which factors were associated with resident satisfaction with paediatric RCCs. DESIGN/METHODS A qualitative survey of Canadian paediatric resident trainees was conducted to assess their RCC experience. The survey was administered through the REDCap© database and distributed through the Canadian Pediatric Program Directors Consortium in June-July 2016. RESULTS There were 127 respondents. Approximately 40% participated in RCCs. The majority of respondents were likely to recommend RCCs to other programs. The most common structure reported was a monthly half-day clinic overseen by an academic paediatrician. Referrals were mainly from inpatient wards, emergency department or family physicians. The majority of residents were satisfied with their experience (n=33, 71.7%). Participants in resident-run RCCs had more positive views compared to participants in staff-run RCCs (all U≥25.0, p≤0.009). Contributing factors to a positive RCC experience included patient-resident continuity, being viewed as the main care provider, and learning to make independent management decisions. CONCLUSION Almost all respondents felt that RCCs should be part of paediatric residency training. Further research is needed to determine the optimal structure for paediatric RCCs. Understanding our current training environment is an important precursor for informing program leadership and national policymakers who wish to improve ambulatory care training