[Implementation of a competency-based graduate medical education program in a neurology department].

BACKGROUND

Competency-based programs have long been the basis of graduate medical education in British and North America. Such formally defined program structures are lacking in German graduate medical education.

METHODS

The methods and assessment tools used in a curriculum-based program of graduate education in medical specialties are presented. The feasibility of the program was tested in day-to-day use in a pilot study conducted within a neurology department. Experience of it during a 1-year period after implementation has also been collected.

RESULTS

It was found that implementation of the program is feasible providing that both the trainers and the students are well motivated, that adequate resources are provided, and that a formal training system is provided for the trainers. This is confirmed by the 1-year experience of the program in routine clinical practice.

CONCLUSIONS

The competency-based program presented, which is compatible with many quality management systems, offers management and assessment tools that will make for more satisfactory postgraduate medical education.