Assessment


Overview

With the implementation of the new training program in 2008 and to support the new curricula, a range of new assessments tools will be introduced for trainees. In the past, the main assessments undertaken by trainees have been the Written and Clinical Examinations: although these examinations will continue in the new education program they will be supported by a range of formative assessments. These formative assessments will not require ‘pass' or ‘fail' gradings but instead will be used for trainees to gauge their progress on aspects of on-the-job performance. Although a ‘pass' will not be required in order to progress to the next stage of training, there will be a requirement for trainees to have completed certain formative requirements in order to be eligible to sit for the central written and clinical examinations (usually undertaken during the third year of training).
 

Formative Mini-CEX

  • The Mini-Clinical Evaluation Exercise (mini-CEX) is a tool used to evaluate a range of core competencies and educational interactions that a trainee uses during day to day encounters with patients.  Through undertaking a number of cases over a period of time, with a number of different assessors, these individual brief encounters add up to providing a reliable measure of a trainee's performance. 
  • Trainees will be required to complete one formative mini-CEX for every three months of basic training.
  • Areas to be covered will include history taking, physical examination, patient management etc.
     

Multi-source Feedback (MSF)

  • Also known as 360 degree assessment, this is a process that involves a range of colleagues/peers providing a report on the professional skills of the trainee. Again, it is a formative process.
  • Undertaken once per year during each year of training.
  • Supervisors, peers, nurses, allied health etc. will be asked to submit forms anonymously.
  • The tool will be used to assess the ability of the trainee to work in teams, communicate well and behave ethically. Once ratings have been collated, a report will be sent to the trainee and their Professional Development Advisor (PDA) and they will meet to discuss the outcome of the ratings and any areas that require improvement.
  • The RACP is developing an online/web-based MSF data management system, with all forms completed anonymously online.
  • MSF is to be piloted in 2007 for introduction from 2008.
     
Transition Arrangements to support the introduction of the new Basic Training Program >>
 
 

Progression to Advanced Training

Progression to advanced training will depend on completion of the following:

  • One formative Mini-CEX for every three months of training
  • A minimum of two MSF, the results of which are to be discussed with PDA
  • An APLS/ALS course
  • A written examination (blueprinted against the curriculum)
  • A clinical examination (four summative short cases and two summative Long Cases)
     

The Assessment Team

Contact
Education Deanery
Sylvia Petriotis
Assessment Unit
The Royal Australasian College of Physicians
Email: sylvia.petriotis@racp.edu.au
Phone: Sylvia Petriotis (02) 8247 6211
Fax: (02) 9256 9698

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