An attempt was made to determine the increase in predictive efficiency attained by adding noncognitive to cognitive variables to predict clinical performance of medical school graduates in residency training. Fifty-six graduates, 45 males, and 11 females, in 33 reading programs representing various specialties, were evaluated by supervisory…

To examine the characteristics of expertise, a study at the University of Minnesota cardiac clinic compared differences in diagnostic ability and strategies between novices (fourth year medical students) and experts (specialists in pediatric cardiology). The investigator presented a model for expertise based on knowledge of subject matter content…

Legislation regarding federal assistance to health professionals is reviewed with tables included on specific expenditures and enrollments. The 1963 Health Professions Educational Assistance Act provided financial assistance for schools in two areas: subsidies for construction of new capacity and loans to students. Amendments to the act in 1965…

Tabular data are presented which indicate substantial increases in numbers of medical schools, applicants, applications, and new entrants from 1970-71 through 1974-75. It appears that the rates of increase have been declining somewhat since 1972-73. Substantial increases have been found among female and minority group applicants and acceptees. The…

The evolution of the Medial College Admission Test (MCAT), its present constitution and operation, and plans for its future are discussed. Also included is a current selected bibliography on the test. (AG)

Romania's program is described in terms of: general information; medical studies and practical medical education; practical work in the first and second years; the third year; externships; and internships. (LBH)

During a three-month clinical clerkship in medicine 175 medical students were evaluated. A proficiency assessment process was developed that included preceptor evaluation of on-the-job performance as well as oral and written examinations. Data analysis showed small correlations among the three measurements of competence. (Author/LBH)

A study found that a first-year medical school course in interviewing skills can significantly improve students' communication skills and confidence. (MSE)

Discusses the teaching of biotechnology to medical students, undergraduate students and high school seniors. Suggests changes in how the basic sciences are taught in medical schools. Reviews the effects of teaching biotechnology at Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine (NEOUCOM). (CW)

Describes a study of medical students' training in orthopedics. Discusss discrepancies between course content and duration and the deficiencies that exist in basic knowledge of anatomy relevant to orthopedics. Recommends that orthopedic courses should appear earlier in the curriculum and practice should be emphasized. (TW)

A large pediatric residency program conducted an extensive analysis of the reliability and validity of the rating forms used to evaluate the pediatric residents enrolled in the program. Data indicate that although the reliability of individual ratings is very low, several factors achieved acceptable levels of reliability when aggregated.…

The history of medical school financial aid is reviewed and the development of an institutionally based, privately financed loan program is described. Programs such as Dartmouth's MELCO can help preserve adequate financial aid for medical students as federal programs decline. (Author/MLW)

A national representative survey of primary care physicians (N=648) was conducted to determine how they deal with patients who have substance abuse problems. The survey revealed how physicians identify substance abuse in their patients, what efforts they make to help these patients, and what barriers they find to effective diagnosis and treatment.…

The purpose of this guide, developed by the Association of American Medical Colleges group on Graduate Research, Education, and Training (GREAT), is to outline a model process by which graduate programs can measure program success and that can be adapted to particular circumstances and priorities. The first sections of the guide examine the…

Progress on a research project at the University of New South Wales that has attempted to develop a test of the interpersonal communication skills of medical students is summarized. The test, which used films of doctor-patient interactions, was designed to measure the ability to respond appropriately to the emotional content of the interactions.…