A conceptual model for program evaluation in graduate medical education.

The author provides (1) a brief overview of the literature concerning program evaluation as applied to medical education, (2) a task-oriented conceptual model for use by residency directors in planning for program evaluation of graduate medical education training programs, (3) an explanation of the term "outcomes evaluation" including distinguishing between types of educational outcomes, and (4) a description of a five-step process of implementing the conceptual model.Recent accreditation standards for graduate medical education programs require a shift from a process-oriented to an outcomes-oriented model of evaluation. Accordingly, residency program directors must ensure compliance by undertaking comprehensive program evaluation procedures that demonstrate educational outcomes. Such procedures include attention to the need and focus of the evaluation; the evaluation methods to be used; and the documentation and presentation of evaluation results to key constituents. Involving teaching faculty and residents in developing a comprehensive evaluation program is vital to success. Regardless of philosophic debates pertaining to the appropriateness of the outcomes model for medical education, this approach appears likely to predominate in the foreseeable future particularly as related to the six general competencies of the physician. A practical, task-oriented approach will assist program directors in ensuring compliance with program evaluation standards.