THE ALUMNI SURVEY AS AN INSTRUMENT FOR PROGRAM-EVALUATION IN INTERNAL-MEDICINE

The objective of this analysis was to assess the practical value of th e training experience for graduates of U.S. internal medicine residenc ies. Six alumni surveys were selected for analysis, wherein training i tems were grouped into comparable categories. Results of the studies w ere compared, using simultaneous preparation/importance ratings as the basis for assessment of items in each category. Six recent alumni sur veys depict internal medicine residency training as a technical experi ence, wherein basic skills and practice-related issues may be underemp hasized. Such surveys are useful for periodic re-evaluation of program goals and outcomes.