Implementing the US preventive services guidelines in a family practice residency.

BACKGROUND

Despite growing emphasis on preventive services, physicians still provide low levels of these services to their patients. Barriers to providing preventive services might be modified by more effective teaching models at the residency level. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a practice-based teaching model designed to increase resident compliance with the US Preventive Services Task Force Guidelines.

METHODS

In Phase One of this study, physicians received didactic education about the US Preventive Services Task Force Guidelines. Subsequently, physicians' compliance with these recommendations was monitored. During Phase Two of the study, a comprehensive two-visit "Health Check" appointment was instituted. It incorporated a computerized health risk appraisal that was reviewed with patients. After the Health Check program was implemented, physicians' compliance with the guidelines was again audited.

RESULTS

The chart audits revealed an overall increase in the level of preventive services provided by physicians from 31% in Phase One to 74% in Phase Two (P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

This type of teaching model can effectively increase the level of preventive services provided to patients in a family practice residency.