Saturday, November 1, 2008

CAN CLINICAL TEACHING BE BOTH HIGH QUALITY AND EFFICIENT?

I don't think Cleveland Clinic is alone in attempting to balance high standards for clinical teaching quality and the need for greater clinical productivity. The same way that experienced clinicians seem able to efficiently care for patients without a drop in patient satisfaction or quality of care, so then, experienced clinical teachers seem to be able to "teach" both efficiently and well.

The other day I was observing a clinical teacher with a group of residents and students during rounds. It was quite a sight. I wish I would have had a video camera, because this was a clear example of teaching expertise in action. The attending interacted with everyone on the team, the flow was quick and there did not seem to be a minute wasted as the team moved from room to room. The questions she asked were insightful. She provided quick feedback and was at the same time respectful to the "senior", asking him to "teach" at one point.

So... What is your secret? How do you make time to observe, give feedback, provide focused teaching? If each person that receives this BLOG could share one idea, we would really have something worth saving!