Bootcamp provided comprehensive orientation for 27 new Program Directors to navigate the landscape of medical education
The Postgraduate Medical Education (PGME) team launched its first New Program Directors’ Bootcamp on September 13, providing a comprehensive orientation for 27 new Program Directors to help them navigate the landscape of medical education.
The day started with an introduction by Joanne Alfieri, MDCM, Assistant Dean of Curricula, PGME and a welcome address from Regina Husa, MD, Associate Dean for PGME. “We are thrilled to be able to provide this new program director training to our emerging leaders in PGME, the first of its kind,” said Dr. Alfieri, “and to have program directors start their journey on the right foot.”
The sessions covered several key topics, including an overview of the Office for Medical Learner Affairs by Olivia Tse, MDCM, Assistant Dean of Resident Professional Affairs, PGME; a presentation of PGME’s administrative structure by Alessandra Celani, Associate Director of Operations, PGME; and an exploration of the accreditation process with Gabriela Ghitulescu, MDCM, Assistant Dean, PGME Accreditation.
Throughout the event, participants gained insights into the services provided by the Office for Medical Learner Affairs and Student Accessibility and Achievement Office, understanding PGME structures and policies and grappling with the nuances of competency-based medical education. They delved into resident assessment tools, explored the accreditation cycle and reform and learned how to create new fellowships.
A highlight of the event was the “Tips & Tricks” segment with award-winning program directors Victoria Mandilaras, MDCM (Program Director for the medical oncology residency program) and Jana Taylor, MDCM (Program Director for Diagnostic Radiology).
Beyond the information sessions, the bootcamp also facilitated networking opportunities during the lunch and mingle session. “The bootcamp was a great opportunity to meet other program directors and to learn about the varied resources available to struggling residents,” said participant and Interim Program Director in the Department of Family Medicine, Kirandeep Birdi, MD, speaking after the event. “Our residents teach us as much as we teach them, and it is a rewarding responsibility to facilitate their development as future colleagues.”
Attendees appreciated the New Program Directors’ Bootcamp for helping to equip them with the knowledge, tools and connections necessary to excel in their roles as future leaders of medical education. “We are fortunate to work with such knowledgeable, dedicated and caring support staff,” said Dr. Birdi. “It is reassuring to know that they are available to help.”
Related: Welcoming our diverse cohort of medical residents and fellows at McGill – Health e-News
