Evaluating the Effects of Quality Improvement Training on Rural and Tribal Medical Track Students

Background: Today’s primary care environment demands skills in health care quality improvement (QI). Since 2019, nearly 130 rural/tribal track students at OSU College of Osteopathic Medicine have been trained in QI. This paper presents findings from an evaluation of training efforts.

Methods: Initially offered during a third-year rural rotation and then as a second-year fall course, QI training consists of Institute for Healthcare Improvement online modules and a QI design project. A post-training survey measured QI competency, interest in QI project implementation during medical school, and satisfaction with training materials.

Results: Most students reported large increases in QI competence and rated instructor-developed materials favorably. Fewer students reported increased interest in QI implementation during medical school. Overall, students appreciated QI training but suggested changes to its timing.

Conclusion: Moving forward, QI training will begin the summer between medical school years one and two for students interested in rural/tribal tracks and will consist only of the fall course.