Frequently Asked Questions
Here at Pitt Plastic Surgery, we have embarked upon a longitudinal, integrated curricular and assessment innovation pilot to study different models of time-variable, competency-based plastic surgery resident education via a consortium of four plastic surgery programs. In essence, the milestones for educational progress are valued more than just the length of time of spent in the program. Of course, all residents must achieve the required competencies in order to graduate and there is already a precedent in US plastic surgery programs for residents to spend extra time in a program if skills need to be further developed. What is new in the CBPST program is that a resident who reaches specific milestones ahead of schedule will be graduated at the end of 5 clinical years, rather than 6.
Of note, no resident will finish the program until the resident’s self-assessment and the faculty’s assessment are aligned.
As to how fellowship directors/faculty may view a competency-based resident who is completing their residency at an accelerated rate, we can not directly control for this, but believe that any such resident would be viewed positively in regards to their ability and self-motivation. Additionally, member programs in the competency-based consortium have positions that cover the spectrum of fellowship training.
Residency/Fellowship Questions
Please use this form for any questions not already answered on this page.
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