A modified Delphi approach to enhance nurturing of professionalism in postgraduate medical education in Singapore.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Nurturing professional identities instils behavioural standards of physicians, in turn facilitating consistent professional attitudes, practice, and patient care. Identities are socioculturally constructed efforts, thus we must account for the social, cultural, and local healthcare factors that shape physicians' roles, responsibilities and expectations. This study aims to forward a program to nurture professionalism amongst physicians in Singapore. METHODS: A 3-phased-evidenced-based-approach was used. First, a systematic scoping review (SSR) was conducted to identify professionalism elements. Second, a questionnaire was created drawing from the SS's findings. Third, a modified Delphi involving local experts identifying socioculturally appropriate elements to nurture professionalism was conducted. RESULTS: The 124 included articles in the SSR revealed definitions, knowledge, skills, and approaches to nurturing professionalism. The modified Delphi identified professional traits, virtues, communication, ethical, self-care, teaching and assessment methods, and support mechanisms. CONCLUSION: Results formed the basis to a holistic and longitudinal program focused on instilling professional traits and competencies over time through personalised and holistic support of physicians. Findings will be of interest to medical communities in the region and beyond.