The role of previously undocumented data in the assessment of medical trainees in clinical competency committees

This study explored the use of previously undocumented data in conjunction with documented da ta in creating a meaningful assessment in a CCC.MethodsAn instrumental case study of a  CCC that uses previously undocumented data was conducted. A single CCC meeting was observed, followed by semi-structured individual interviews with all CCC members (n = 7). Meeting and interview transcripts were analyzed iteratively.ResultsDocumented data were perceived as limited by inaccurate or superficial data, but sometimes served as a  starting point for invoking previously undocumented data. Previously undocumented data were introduced as summary impressions, contextualizing factors, personal anecdotes and, rarely, hearsay. The purpose was to raise a potential issue for discussion, enhance and elaborate an impression, or count er an impression. Various mechanisms allowed for the responsible use of previously undocumented data: embedding these data within a structured format; sharing relevant information without commenting beyond one’s scope of experience; clarifying allowable disclosure of personal contextual factors w ith the trainee pre-meeting; excluding previously undocumented data not widely agreed upon in decision-making; and expecting these data to have been provided as direct feedback to trainees pre-meeting.DiscussionPreviously undocumented data appear to play a  vital part of the group conversation in a CCC to create meaningful, developmentally focused trainee asses...
Source: Perspectives on Medical Education - Category: Universities & Medical Training Source Type: research