The Effects of an Obstetrics and Gynecology Milestone 1 Course on MS4 Self-Perceived Confidence and Competence

Abstract

To describe the effects of an obstetrics and gynecology Milestone 1 course on the self-perceived knowledge confidence and procedural competence of MS4 students.

In April, 2014, 13 University of Louisville, School of Medicine MS4 students entering obstetrics and gynecology residency programs participated in an obstetrics and gynecology Milestone 1 course. Self-assessment surveys for both confidence in knowledge and competence in procedural ability were administered precourse and postcourse and 2 months into postgraduate year (PGY)-1. Thirty-four points were assessed using a 5-point Likert scale.

Survey response rates were 100% precourse, 93% postcourse, and 53% PGY-1 month 2. Precourse compared with immediate postcourse results demonstrated improvement in all areas assessed (overall odd ratio of 10.23, P≤2.2×e−16), a median increase in perceived knowledge of 20.9% (range 10.6–41.1%) and perceived procedural competence of 21.5% (range 2.2–138.3%). Of the respondents at PGY-1 months 2, 86% (6/7) felt the course absolutely (Likert scale=5) prepared them for starting residency, with hands on sessions being the most valuable. Knowledge confidence and procedural skill competence scores increased compared with precourse values. Compared with immediate postcourse results, however, a net decrease in knowledge confidence (median −12.54%) was seen, while overall perceived procedural competence was maintained (median change 4.72%).

Participation in our Milestone 1 course resulted in increased self-perceived knowledge confidence and procedural competence.