Feedback Framework in Psychiatry Residency Training: A Cross-sectional Survey Amongst Psychiatry Post-graduate Residents of India.

BACKGROUND

Feedback has proven crucial in various training systems, especially medical training. However, data regarding the effectiveness of a feedback framework in psychiatry post-graduate (PG) training is limited. Hence, we undertook this survey to assess the essential components of a feedback mechanism in psychiatry PG training in India.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional survey in which a questionnaire was circulated online to residents pursuing psychiatry training across various medical colleges, institutions, and hospitals in India. The questionnaire aimed to cover various aspects of a feedback program for psychiatry PG training. The target audience was kept as residents since they are the main benefactors of an effective feedback system.

RESULTS

We received responses from 262 residents from 84 departments nationwide. The majority ( = 248, 94.7%) believed that a feedback system is necessary in psychiatry residency. Most believe feedback about outpatient and inpatient clinical performance and patient management skills is highly valuable. Real-time feedback was reported to be helpful, and faculty, followed by senior residents, became the most desired sources of feedback.

CONCLUSIONS

The survey highlights that residents strongly need a feedback mechanism during psychiatry residency. Implementing a feedback program and constantly evaluating its effectiveness could go a long way in improving psychiatry training outcomes in India.