CHICAGO — The American Medical Association (AMA) House of Delegates (HOD) convened at its Annual Meeting to adopt new policies aimed at strengthening medical education and bolstering the future physician workforce. The new policies include efforts to address medical student and physician burnout, support trainees during licensure exams, and advocate for physician-led care.
Streamlining compliance training requirements
Physicians practicing at multiple hospitals often encounter redundant compliance training requirements, as each facility may have its own version of legally required courses. Delegates adopted policy calling for the creation of reciprocity programs that allow physicians to receive credit for compliance training completed at one health care entity toward requirements at other facilities, as long as the training meets established standards. The policy also calls for the AMA to work with relevant parties to explore options for fair compensation or continuing medical education (CME) credits for time spent on these trainings.
Support for trainees during exams
The HOD adopted policy urging greater support for medical trainees who face logistical or financial hurdles when taking licensure exams. The new policy calls on the National Board of Medical Examiners and the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners to address challenges related to testing centers, including rescheduling exams and cost. The policy also encourages medical schools to offer more assistance and flexibility in exam scheduling.
Supporting flexibility in burnout prevention programs
Delegates adopted policy discouraging burnout prevention programs that impose inflexible requirements, mandatory assignments, or punitive measures for physicians and medical trainees. Instead, the new policy supports evidence-based programs that allow for voluntary participation, flexible scheduling, and recognition of the importance of personal time in promoting well-being.
Advocating for physician-led health care teams
The HOD adopted policy encouraging residency programs to promote opportunities for residents and trainees to engage in advocacy for physician-led care. Delegates also directed the AMA to expand educational resources, toolkits, and workshops that residency programs can use to teach medical trainees about physician-led care and prepare them to engage effectively with policymakers. The new policy builds on the AMA’s existing work to provide resources to residency programs through the AMA GME Competency Education Program.
