Ongoing evaluation is a key component of a successful residency program.  Your progress through the program will be assessed in several ways. These include:

• Rotational evaluations

• MCQ

• OSCE

• Oral examination

The evaluation program is the responsibility of the Associate Director, Evaluation and the emphasis is on continuous constructive feedback for the individual.  An in-training evaluation occurs at the conclusion of each rotation and is reviewed with the resident.  During the second and third years residents take the American College of Physicians In-Training knowledge examination which provides feedback to the individual.  The group performance data are useful for the Department in refining its educational program.  As well, an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) is held annually in the first and second years.  The third year residents are given two oral examinations.

Residents completing their "core" training at the University of Calgary have had a very high success rate on the examinations of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC).  During the last ten years, 96% of our trainees passed the written examinations on their first attempt; all but one of the remaining individuals were successful at a second sitting.  With respect to the oral examinations (the final step to certification), 93% of our residents have passed on their first attempt; with one exception all others were successful the second time.

Rotational Evaluations

Before starting a new rotation it is important that you review the objectives with the preceptor. The objectives should guide your learning. At the end of every 4 week block it is imperative that you seek formal feedback (either an interim evaluation or a final evaluation). Remind the preceptor the Monday before you end the rotation so he/she has time to complete the evaluation. The evaluations are currently being revised to reflect the CANMEDS objectives. An overall mark of 2 or greater is satisfactory. An overall mark of 1 is marginal and an overall mark of 0 is unsatisfactory. You are expected to sign the evaluation. The signature attests to the fact you have read the evaluation. It does not necessarily mean that you agree with the evaluation. You may appeal a marginal or unsatisfactory evaluation. Any marginal or unsatisfactory evaluation must be accompanied by a letter detailing concerns. The evaluation is the responsibility of the resident (in conjunction with the program) for completion and record keeping.

MCQ

The R2 and R3 residents sit the day long American Program Directors of IM in-training examination.  The results from this exam helps the residents guide their learning.  The program directors also use these results to help improve the clinical rotations.

OSCE

There is an OSCE exam for the PGY1 residents.  This exam normally occurs in April and consists of 12 stations.  The stations test history taking skills, physical examination skills, communication skills, as well as laboratory interpretation skills.

Oral Exams

There is an oral exam in the Fall and Spring for the PGY2 and 3's year residents. The format is similar to the Royal College format.