ANNUAL REPORT 2009-2010 - University of Toronto Department of ...

ANNUAL REPORT 2009-2010
Postgraduate Medical Education
Heather Shapiro, Director
The University of Toronto continues to lead in the field of postgraduate medical education in
Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
Highlights: Several initiatives have been started to further enhance postgraduate education. The
academic half-day has been re-vamped so that all residents are together on Thursday mornings.
Previously, the teaching had been split into groups for juniors and seniors. The new arrangement
should foster cohesiveness of the group, and reduce the duplication of teaching for the faculty.
The curriculum itself has been revised extensively. Highlights of the changes include the
appointment of Dr Lillian Gien as the coordinator for the critical appraisal teaching, the
incorporation of our PhD colleagues for basic science teaching, and return to the surgical skills
labs for the seniors. In addition, Dr Sari Kives has taken on the position of Clinical Science
Evening (CSE) Advisor. The CSE will continue to be held five times a year, but with a new
emphasis on review of current controversies highlighted in selected journals.
Enrollment reached 51 residents in the PGY1 entry position residency (obstetrics and
gynaecology). This included two residents currently enrolled in MSc training. We have received
funding for one of only four positions at U of T in the Clinical Investigator Program (CIP). This
is a tribute to the strong research support we are able to offer our trainees.
The number of CaRMs applicants continues to rise, reflecting the popularity of the specialty and
the reputation of the University of Toronto. The accommodation of the increased resident number
has been met easily by the expansion of a resident position at Credit Valley Hospital and other
community hospitals.
We have said goodbye to our Resident Wellness Coordinator, Dr Romy Nitsch, and are actively
recruiting her replacement.
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