[The method of selection of the residents in Spain. Analysis of the examination MIR and offer of a new methodology]

Abstract

Introduction: The method for selecting medical graduates for residency positions has a strong influence on teaching and learning strategies in medical schools. The methodology currently used in Spain does not seem appropriate for ranking the candidates or improving curriculum development. Thus, and taking into account the most consistent methodologies used in the United Kingdom and USA, we have designed a new method to be used in our country.

Objectives: To analyze the limitations of the methodology used in Spain, and propose a new one aimed to improve the accuracy of selection itself and avoiding the negative influence of the current method on curricular development. In addition, we emphasize the necessity of improving teaching and learning in the clinical context to assure that graduating students reach an adequate level of clinical competence.

Conclusions: The method for selecting candidates to residency post currently used in Spain, which relies mainly on testing theoretical knowledge, should be changed for an alternative methodology taking into account student,s performance through the course and assessing his/her ability for clínical contextualization of knowledge and level of clinical competence.

Keywords: Assessment; Clinical competence; Competencia clínica; Examen MIR; Grado de medicina; Knowledge testing; MIR examination; Medical grade; Posgrado en medicina; Postgraduate specialization; Residencia; Selección de residentes; Selection for residency; Tests de conocimientos.