Feedback Framework in Psychiatry Residency Training: A Cross-sectional Survey Amongst Psychiatry Post-graduate Residents of India

Background: Feedback has proven crucial in various training systems, especially medical training. However, data regarding the effectiveness of a feedback framework in psychiatry post-graduate (PG) training is limited. Hence, we undertook this survey to assess the essential components of a feedback mechanism in psychiatry PG training in India.Methods: This is a cross-sectional survey in which a questionnaire was circulated online to residents pursuing psychiatry training across various medical colleges, institutions, and hospitals in India. The questionnaire aimed to cover various aspects of a feedback program for psychiatry PG training. The target audience was kept as residents since they are the main benefactors of an effective feedback system.Results: We received responses from 262 residents from 84 departments nationwide. The majority (n = 248, 94.7%) believed that a feedback system is necessary in psychiatry residency. Most believe feedback about outpatient and inpatient clinical performance and patient management skills is highly valuable. Real-time feedback was reported to be helpful, and faculty, followed by senior residents, became the most desired sources of feedback.Conclusions: The survey highlights that residents strongly need a feedback mechanism during psychiatry residency. Implementing a feedback program and constantly evaluating its effectiveness could go a long way in improving psychiatry training outcomes in India.