Development of Evaluations to Assess the Quality of Residency Program Directors

Objective: The objective was to develop residency program director specific evaluation tools with face validity for identifying areas of excellence and opportunities for improvement. Methods: Investigators conducted standardized interviews with graduate medical education (GME) leadership, department chairs, program directors, and senior residents assessing their perspectives on the desirable qualities of program directors. Responses were categorized by theme to create benchmarked evaluation tools. Results: Residents and faculty emphasized communication, mentorship, and role modeling. Faculty emphasized maintenance of accreditation and resident discipline, while residents emphasized wellness, approachability, and maintenance of the learning environment. The investigators then developed a 10-item assessment for residents and a similar 12-item assessment for department chairs and GME leadership with face validity. Conclusion: Although the responsibilities of residency training directors are numerous and variable by specialty, the investigators were able to develop valid program director evaluation tool templates that can highlight the successes and opportunities for improvement of these academicians.