Graduate medical education in humanism and professionalism: a needs assessment survey of pediatric gastroenterology fellows

J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 2014 Jan;58(1):34-7. doi: 10.1097/MPG.0b013e3182a4e5c9.

Abstract

The deterioration of humanism and professionalism during graduate medical training is an acknowledged concern, and programs are required to provide professionalism education for pediatric fellows. We conducted a needs assessment survey in a national sample of 138 first- and second-year gastroenterology fellows (82% response rate). Most believed that present humanism and professionalism education met their needs, but this education was largely informal (eg, role modeling). Areas for formal education desired by >70% included competing demands of clinical practice versus research, difficult doctor-patient relationships, depression/burnout, angry parents, medical errors, work-life balance, and the patient illness experience. These results may guide curricula to formalize humanism and professionalism education in pediatric gastroenterology fellowships.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Attitude of Health Personnel
  • Child
  • Curriculum*
  • Education, Medical, Graduate*
  • Fellowships and Scholarships*
  • Female
  • Gastroenterology / education*
  • Humanism*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Needs Assessment
  • Pediatrics / education*
  • Physicians
  • Professional Competence*