Changes to the Program
About Us
The anesthesia residency program at the University of Toronto offers world-class training in a supportive and rewarding learning environment.
We are one of the largest departments of anesthesia in North America, a fact that affords our program unparalleled opportunities and resources. We also benefit from a team of internationally renowned clinician and researcher leads at the forefront of our profession. For our residents, this translates into exceptional learning opportunities and clinical training with near unbounded possibilities in academic achievement.
Background
In November 2020, during the accreditation review by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, the Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine was notified of their intent to withdraw accreditation of our anesthesia residency program.
What Does it Mean?
The reviewers identified the program's many strengths, including the excellent work of the program director, educational leaders, curriculum and the many innovations.
However, there were 18 areas for improvement (AFIs) identified. These AFIs were grouped into four main themes. These were:
- The supervision of trainees in the operating room
- Teacher feedback
- The timely assessment of residents
- Civility in the learning environment
Download our one pager summarizes the changes to the residency proram
We've summarized the main changes to the program in this downloadable and printable info-graphic.
The Way Forward
For the last three years, our team has been working to address these issues identified during the 2020 external review.
Led by the Anesthesia Residency Education Steering Sub-Committee and with the support of our faculty and residents, we've taken tremendous steps towards improving our anesthesia residency program.
There is still work to be done, but we are confident in our ability to work together, reach our goals and ensure the best environment for department.
What we've done
The Supervision of Trainees in the Operating Room
Teacher Feedback
The Timely Assessment of Residents
Civility in the Learning Environment
Additional AFIs
- Ensuring residents have opportunities to apply for community electives across Canada starting in PGY2.
- Ensuring residents can attend Academic Half Days in a regular manner.
- A portal was developed to facilitate the completion of a mandatory scholarly project for graduation from the residency program.
- Residents involved in research have dedicated research blocks.
- Appointed Directors of Faculty Development and Professionalism and a Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.
- Ensured that Department Chief Residents are selected solely by the resident cohorts.
Resources
We've compiled a list of resources for tackling issues including civility & professionalism, giving and receiving feedback, clinical supervision and more!
The Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine is committed to excellence in teaching and ongoing educational support of our trainees and faculty. To do this, we support our faculty during their teaching journey.
A complete list of policies and guidelines from Postgraduate Medical Education.
Use our "yellow button" to get access to resources and support.
An archive of emails, newsletters and recordings that have been shared on the accreditation issue to date.
Contact Us
Can't find the information you're looking for? Contact us!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is accreditation?
In Canada, post graduate medical programs typically undergo an accreditation survey every eight years. The accreditation process is conducted by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, which is the national organization responsible for accrediting post graduate medical education programs.
What does the accreditation process involve?
The accreditation process involves a comprehensive review of the program's curriculum, teaching and assessment methods, faculty qualifications, resident learning environment, and other aspects of the program. The accreditation process’ goal is to ensure that the program meets the Royal College's standards for post graduate medical education, and that it is providing residents with the knowledge, skills, and competencies they need to become competent and effective physicians.
Why is accreditation important?
Accreditation helps post graduate medical education programs ensure that they are providing residents with the education and training they need to become competent and effective physicians, and to promote continuous improvement in post graduate medical education.
How can I get updates on the accreditation process?
We share updates on the accreditation process in a variety of ways, including meetings, E-Bulletins and newsletters.
To be added to our mailing list or to receive prior communication, please contact us.