Defining service and education: the first step to developing the correct balance

Adequate learning can be facilitated by the development of clear definitions of service and education and guidelines for the distribution of resident time and that the balance between education and service is acceptable.

Abstract

The Residency Review Committee mandates that education is the central purpose of the surgical residency without clearly defining the balance between education and service. Attendings and residents agree on the educational value of most activities and that the balance between education and service is acceptable. When compared with attendings, residents feel they need significantly more time in education. Adequate learning can be facilitated by the development of clear definitions of service and education and guidelines for the distribution of resident time.