RESUMO
Transitions during a career in cardiothoracic surgery include transition to practice following residency, multiple transitions over the course of the career, and transition to retirement. Each carries some degree of uncertainty and stress, and early preparation for each transition is key to success. A clear understanding of both professional and personal goals drives decisions and choices along the course of a career. It is crucial to seek legal counsel with expertise in physician employment contracts. Developing collegial and collaborative relationships should be a focus throughout one's career. This article outlines the key elements to successful career progression.
Assuntos
Escolha da Profissão , Cirurgia Torácica , Humanos , Cirurgia Torácica/organização & administração , Mobilidade Ocupacional , Internato e Residência/organização & administração , AposentadoriaRESUMO
BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic decreased the operative case volume for surgical residents. Our institution implemented Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs) in all core surgical training programs to document the competency of graduating residents. Continuation of this project aimed to improve implementation. METHODS: This project occurred at a large academic center with eight surgical specialties during the 2020-21 (Year 1) and 2021-22 (Year 2) academic years. Each specialty chose five EPAs, and residents were asked to obtain three micro-assessments per EPA. After the initial pilot year, program directors were surveyed regarding perceptions of EPA utility and barriers to implementation. RESULTS: Seventy senior residents completed 732/906 (80.8%) micro-assessments. Of these, 99.6% were deemed practice ready. Total micro-assessment completion rates in four specialties, four specific EPAs (including one EPA identified "at risk" due to the COVID-19 pandemic), and overall were significantly higher in Year 2 than Year 1 (p â< â0.05) CONCLUSIONS: Implementing EPAs in all core surgical specialties at an institution is achievable, though expectedly initially imperfect. An ongoing quality collaborative initiative focused on barriers to implementation can improve completion rates.