How to Improve Teaching on the Hospital Wards-Reply

Abstract

I wish to comment on several issues raised by Dr Greenberg. The roles and responsibilities of the senior resident and attending physician should be based on sound principles that form the foundation of the teaching program. The senior resident should be responsible for so-called work rounds as I outlined in my article. The attending physician should set an example as a clinician and teacher, which is a much more active role than that of a resource person and observer as described by Dr Greenberg. It is crucial that time be set aside specifically for instruction, using the bedside and conference room. These small-group interactive sessions should focus on patients and their problems. I agree that faculty development workshops can be useful in helping attending physicians improve their teaching skills.