Obstetrics and gynaecology trainees' perceptions of the CanMEDS expertise model: implications for training from a regional questionnaire study in the United Kingdom

Abstract

The CanMEDS expertise model is a multi-domain competency framework for doctors. The aims of this study were to assess the perceived importance of the CanMEDS roles and achievement among obstetrics and gynaecology trainees of all grades with a view to identifying opportunities to enhance training. This study was exempt from formal ethical or institutional registration. The data collection was completed in 2017. Following a video introduction, the trainees completed a questionnaire. For each of the CanMEDS domains, trainees of different tiers perceived them to be equally important. Indeed, the junior and senior cohorts of trainees perceived all domains to be equally important, as signified by the significant degree of score correlation. Age was a significant variable for achievement of competency in the roles of a Medical Expert (p = .01), a Communicator (p = .04), a Collaborator (p = .002), a Scholar (p = .01) and a Professional (p = .03). Grade was significant for the Medical Expert (p = .001) and Leader (p = .001) role. Better alignment of clinical activities with CanMEDS competencies and faculty development will complement the training in leadership skills.

Impact statement

• What is already known on this subject? The CanMEDS medical expertise model is a multi-domain framework of seven components. This framework has been utilised to assess the training efficacy of curricula and unlock opportunities for improvement. The research application of the CanMEDS framework within Obstetrics and Gynaecology is limited.

• What does this study add? Results indicate that all trainees recognise the importance of CanMEDS roles: age and grade are significant variables in the perceived achievement of CanMEDS roles. The study identifies areas for improvement in the current training strategy.

• What are the implications for clinical practice/future research? Research should formalise the assessment of competencies in non-technical skills. Efforts should focus on identifying the activities which will develop leadership skills.

Keywords:

• CanMEDS
• training
• competency
• leadership
• obstetrics and gynaecology

Disclosure statement

All authors have no conflicts of interests to declare.