A two-stage partial fixing approach for solving the residency block scheduling problem.

We consider constructing feasible annual block schedules for residents in a medical training program. We must satisfy coverage requirements to guarantee an acceptable staffing level for different services in the hospital as well as education requirements to ensure residents receive appropriate training to pursue their individual (sub-)specialty interests. The complex requirement structure makes this resident block scheduling problem a complicated combinatorial optimization problem.

Computer Modeling to Evaluate the Impact of Technology Changes on Resident Procedural Volume.

Background: As resident "index" procedures change in volume due to advances in technology or reliance on simulation, it may be difficult to ensure trainees meet case requirements. Training programs are in need of metrics to determine how many residents their institutional volume can support.

Objective: As a case study of how such metrics can be applied, we evaluated a case distribution simulation model to examine program-level mediastinoscopy and endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) volumes needed to train thoracic surgery residents.

Achieving Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education duty hours compliance within advanced surgical training: a simulation-based feasibility assessment.

Background: Certain operative cases occur unpredictably and/or have long operative times, creating a conflict between Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) rules and adequate training experience.

Methods: A ProModel-based simulation was developed based on historical data. Probabilistic distributions of operative time calculated and combined with an ACGME compliant call schedule.

Estimating minimum program volume needed to train surgeons: when 4 × 15 really equals 90.

Introduction: Work-hour restrictions have decreased flexibility in scheduling and reduced exposure to certain operative cases. These restrictions may affect a resident's ability to meet certification requirements, particularly for rare, unscheduled cases (e.g.