APGO

Background: Pediatric and adolescent gynecology (PAG) is a required aspect of OB/GYN resident training.  OB/GYN providers are expected to care for this patient population.  In this program, a formal curriculum occurs in the second year and involves didactics, clinic experience, and assigned study materials. 

Methods: A survey assessing comfort level and desire for further training was administered to all current residents at a single OB/GYN resident training program.  The residents completed an exam to test knowledge of various aspects of PAG prior to the curriculum start, immediately after curriculum completion and again 1-2 years later. Survey results were evaluated using descriptive statistics and exam scores via paired t-test statistics.

Results: The survey revealed that 64% and 56% of current residents did not feel confident or competent when caring for pediatric and adolescent patients, respectively.  However most indicated that they intend to care for pediatric and adolescent patients in their future practice.  Interestingly, their exam scores increased significantly immediately after the curriculum (p=0.002) and remained significantly higher after 1-2 years (p=0.005). 

Discussions: PAG is an important and required aspect of OB/GYN resident training. Objectively, there was a significant increase in medical knowledge after curriculum completion that was maintained for almost 2 years.  However, despite significant long-term knowledge retention, residents still expressed subjective concerns regarding poor confidence caring for this patient population.   Despite an effective dedicated curriculum, programs should consider innovative ways to incorporate PAG educational experiences longitudinally throughout residency training.

Keywords: Gynecology, residents, pediatric