Assessment of Physician Competence and Performance In American Samoa David E.J. Bazzo, M.D. William Norcross, M.D. Peter Boal
Assessment of Physician
Competence and Performance
In American Samoa
David E.J. Bazzo, M.D.
William Norcross, M.D.
Peter Boal
American Samoa
• US Territory
• Population ~60,000
• 60 physicians representing multiple specialties
• LBJ Tropical Medical Center
• Department of Public Health
Health
• Ranked #1 in BMI by WHO
• Chronic disease burden high
• 80% of population below Federal poverty level
• Salaries are low compared to mainland
• Physician recruitment is difficult
“It’s the ‘fairest’ way to fly: Samoa Air
becomes world’s first airline to charge
passengers by pound”
Physicians
• 11 are USMLE certified
• Current licensing statute
– Requires USMLE certification
– Loose guidelines
– Hospital credentials
– Many practicing not meeting requirements
PACE competency assessment
1. Intake form, practice questionnaire
2. 360 degree assessment
3. International Foundations of Medicine®
knowledge examination
4. Oral clinic examination
5. Chart review and chart stimulated recall
6. On-site direct observation of performance
7. Review of credentialing/personnel file
Assessment
• Participants will be evaluated by faculty in their
specialty or a related specialty
• Case conference will be held to consider all
material and make a final determination of
competence and performance.
• De we consider implication if significant number
do not meet competency bar?
Guidance on research questions
• Data collection will include: – Demographic information from the participant,
including training, CPD
– Results of all components of the assessment
• Other?
Potential research questions:
• Does training level of individuals predict
performance on the assessment?
• Do years in practice experience affect
performance on the assessment?
– Do number of years practicing in Samoa impact
results
• What is the predictive value of each component
of the assessment?
• Does medical school predict performance on the
assessment?