A Survey-Based Evaluation of Self-Perceived Competency after Nephrology Fellowship Training

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: There have been no recent analyses of the adequacy of training in U.S. nephrology training programs or the importance of specific aspects of fellowship training in the careers and practices of nephrologists who recently completed training. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS: An internet-based survey was sent to members of the American Society of Nephrology who completed nephrology training in 2004 to 2008. Respondents were asked to rate their fellowship training (little or no training, some training but not enough to feel competent, well trained and competent) in specific areas and the importance of each area to their current careers and practices. RESULTS: Among 133 recent adult nephrology trainees, most felt well trained and competent in many areas of patient care and core content. A significant percentage of respondents reported receiving little or no training, or some training but not enough to feel competent in other specific areas, such as genetic renal disease, care of adults with childhood kidney disease, pregnancy complications, poisoning, nutrition, end-of-life care, clinical pharmacology, home and self-care hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, plasmapheresis, interpretation and performance of renal ultrasound and other renal imaging, renal biopsy pathology interpretation, business and administrative aspects of nephrology, research, and research funding. Many of these areas were also identified as somewhat or very important to the careers and practices of respondents. CONCLUSIONS: Nephrology training programs are perceived as doing an excellent job training fellows in many areas. Gaps in training should be addressed in fellowship training and post-training education.