A HOUSESTAFF AMBULATORY BLOCK MODEL - DESCRIPTION AND EVALUATION

Background: Recommendations are to increase ambulatory training in pos tgraduate medical education. Description: We collected pre- and postro tation measures of satisfaction in 1,500 patients. We also collected p ostrotation ratings from 60 residents concerning (a) changes in knowle dge and skill (b) evaluation of selected components and overall experi ence. Evaluation: Most patients gave high ratings to their physicians pre- and postrotation. Housestaff reported increased self-rated knowle dge and skills for Rheumatology and Behavioral Medicine (p > .001) and for Women's Health (p < .05). Trainees valued hands-on patient care a nd focused clinical content. Modules with observational format, limite d staff involvement, or fewer patients received lower ratings. Conclus ions: We found significant increases in self-rated knowledge and skill s, and that trainees preferred an interactive, hands-on, focused-learn ing format. Research is needed to determine the effect of ambulatory e xperiences on actual patient care or primary care as a career choice.