Self-reported competencies related to end of life care among residents and attending physicians

This article was migrated. The article was not marked as recommended. AimsResearch with residents demonstrates perceptions of insufficient skills and comfort with end of life (EOL) care, and there is a paucity of evidence regarding attending physicians' competencies in such care. The purpose of this study was to gain an understanding of self-reported competencies among medical school graduates and to assess the impact of a 3 rd year hospice rotation.MethodsAn online survey was sent to 510 medical school alumni assessing experiences, self-rated competencies and preparedness regarding EOL care, and perceptions of the hospice rotation. Analyses explored a range of possible variable associations.Results116 surveys were completed. EOL care experience was substantial during undergraduate and residency training. More experience was predictive of greater skills and comfort. Pain management skills were rated lower than other skills. Completion of the hospice rotation was associated with confidence-building and perceptions of preparedness. Attending physicians did not report stronger skills than residents. There was strong support for training in EOL care.ConclusionsOur findings support previous research about the benefits of EOL care experiences for residents and exposure to such care during undergraduate training, underscoring the importance of well-tailored EOL care education at all levels of training for optimal development of competencies.