Introduction
Mission Statement
At the University of Balamand, our mission is to provide residents with a comprehensive and rigorous medical education that prepares them to be compassionate, competent, and ethical physicians. We are dedicated to fostering a culture of learning, innovation, and excellence in patient care.
Core Values
- - Compassion: We prioritize patient care, treating each individual with empathy, respect, and dignity.
- - Integrity: We adhere to the highest ethical standards in all aspects of our work.
- - Excellence: We strive for superior quality in patient care, education, and research.
- - Collaboration: We work as a cohesive team, leveraging diverse perspectives to achieve our goals.
- - Innovation: We encourage creativity and embrace new ideas to advance medical practice and education.
Overview of Residency Programs
The University of Balamand offers residency programs across a wide range of medical specialties. Each program is designed to provide residents with comprehensive training, combining hands-on clinical experience with a strong academic foundation. Our affiliated hospitals, renowned for their commitment to excellence, offer diverse patient populations and a variety of clinical settings, ensuring a well-rounded training experience.
Residency Structure
Clinical Rotations
Throughout your residency, you will participate in clinical rotations across various specialties and subspecialties. These rotations are designed to provide you with exposure to different fields, allowing you to develop the necessary skills and knowledge for each area of medicine. Each rotation has specific learning objectives, and you will be expected to take on progressively greater responsibilities as you advance through the program.
- - Rotation Schedules: Rotation schedules will be provided at the beginning of the academic year. Any changes must be approved by your program director.
- - Learning Objectives: Each rotation comes with specific goals. Ensure you understand these objectives at the start of each rotation.
- - Assessment: At the end of each rotation, you will be evaluated based on your performance, clinical skills, and professionalism.
Elective Opportunities
In addition to mandatory rotations, residents have the opportunity to pursue elective rotations in areas of personal interest. Electives, typically unpaid, can be taken within UOB affiliated hospitals or at other recognized institutions. Electives offer the chance to gain experience in subspecialties, participate in research, or explore global health.
- - Elective Selection: You are encouraged to select electives that align with your career goals. Discuss options with your program director.
- - Approval Process: Electives must be approved by your program director, especially if they are outside the affiliated hospitals.
- - Reporting: You are expected to submit a report summarizing your experience at the end of each elective.
Research Requirements
Research is an integral part of your residency training. You are encouraged to engage in research projects, contribute to the medical literature, and present your findings at conferences. Research activities help you develop critical thinking skills and contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge.
- - Research Projects: Residents are required to participate in at least one research project during their residency.
- - Mentorship: Research mentors are available to guide you through your projects. Seek out a mentor early in your residency.
- - Presentations: You are encouraged to present your research at instructional, national and, when possible, international conferences.
Evaluation and Feedback
Your progress during residency will be closely monitored through regular evaluations. These evaluations are based on a competency-based framework, assessing your clinical skills, medical knowledge, communication abilities, and professionalism.
- - Feedback Sessions: Regular feedback sessions with your supervisors will help you identify strengths and areas for improvement.
- - Remediation: If any deficiencies are identified, a remediation plan will be developed in collaboration with your program director, head of division or chair person.
Hospital Policies and Procedures
Code of Conduct
As a resident, you are expected to uphold the highest standards of professional behavior. The code of conduct outlines the ethical and professional expectations for all residents.
- - Professionalism: Maintain a professional demeanor in all interactions with patients, colleagues, and staff.
- - Respect: Treat everyone with respect and dignity, regardless of their role or background.
- - Confidentiality: Protect patient privacy and confidentiality at all times.
Attendance and Leave Policies
Regular attendance is crucial for your residency training. Leave policies are in place to ensure that you balance your personal needs with your professional responsibilities.
- - Attendance: You are expected to be present for all scheduled rotations, conferences, and educational sessions.
- - Leave Requests: All leave requests must be submitted in advance and approved by your program director.
- - Sick Leave: In case of illness, notify your supervisor as soon as possible and submit a medical certificate if required.
Dress Code
Residents are required to adhere to a professional dress code while on duty. This reflects the respect and professionalism expected in a healthcare setting.
- - Attire: Wear clean, appropriate, and professional attire. Scrubs may be worn where appropriate, with a white coat if required.
- - Identification: Always wear your UOB/hospital identification badge while on duty.
- - Personal Hygiene: Maintain high standards of personal hygiene.
Patient Confidentiality
Patient confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of medical practice. You must comply with all regulations regarding the privacy and security of patient information.
- - Confidentiality: Do not discuss patient information in public areas or with unauthorized individuals.
- - Documentation: Ensure that all patient records are securely stored and only accessible to authorized personnel.
Professionalism and Interpersonal Relationships
Professionalism extends to all interactions with colleagues, patients, and staff. You are expected to maintain respectful and collegial relationships at all times.
- - Teamwork: Collaborate effectively with all members of the healthcare team.
- - Communication: Communicate clearly and respectfully with patients and colleagues.
- - Conflict Resolution: Address conflicts professionally and seek assistance from supervisors if needed.
Incident Reporting and Patient Safety
Maintaining patient safety is a top priority. You are required to report any incidents or near-misses to ensure that appropriate measures are taken to prevent future occurrences.
- - Incident Reporting: Report any adverse events, near-misses, or safety concerns immediately.
- - Patient Safety: Participate in patient safety initiatives and adhere to safety protocols.
- - Continuous Improvement: Engage in discussions and activities aimed at improving patient safety.
Infection Control and Hand Hygiene
Infection control is critical to preventing the spread of infections within the hospital. Strict adherence to hand hygiene and infection control protocols is mandatory.
- - Hand Hygiene: Follow hand hygiene protocols before and after patient contact, and when handling medical equipment.
- - Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear appropriate PPE as required for specific procedures or patient care situations. This includes gloves, masks, gowns, and eye protection.
- - Isolation Protocols: Adhere to isolation protocols for patients with communicable diseases. Ensure that all staff and visitors are aware of these protocols.
- - Environmental Hygiene: Maintain cleanliness in patient care areas and report any breaches in infection control practices.
Clinical Responsibilities
Daily Routines and Expectations
Residents are expected to follow a structured daily routine that ensures the efficient and effective care of patients. This includes participating in morning rounds, attending educational sessions, and completing clinical duties.
- - Morning Rounds: Attend and actively participate in morning rounds with the attending physician and healthcare team. Prepare by reviewing patient charts and clinical data beforehand.
- - Patient Management: Take responsibility for the management of assigned patients, including diagnosis, treatment planning, and follow-up care.
- - Documentation: Accurately document all patient interactions, treatment plans, and clinical notes in the medical record.
Patient Rounds and Documentation
Conducting patient rounds is a fundamental part of residency training. Proper documentation during rounds is essential for continuity of care and legal compliance.
- - Comprehensive Notes: Ensure that all patient notes are comprehensive, clear, and up-to-date. Include relevant history, physical examination findings, diagnostic results, and treatment plans.
- - Sign-Outs: Provide thorough sign-outs at the end of your shift, ensuring that the incoming team has all the necessary information to continue patient care seamlessly.
- - Patient Communication: Engage in effective communication with patients and their families, explaining diagnoses, treatment options, and progress clearly and empathetically.
On-Call Duties and Coverage
On-call duties are a critical component of your residency training, providing you with opportunities to manage acute patient care independently while under supervision.
- - On-Call Schedule: Familiarize yourself with your on-call schedule, and be punctual and prepared when reporting for duty.
- - Responsiveness: Be responsive to calls, and prioritize tasks based on the urgency of patient needs.
- - Night Shifts: During night shifts, ensure that you are well-rested before starting your shift and remain vigilant throughout.
Consultation and Referrals
Consultation and referral processes are key to providing comprehensive care, involving specialists when needed.
- - Consultation Requests: Clearly articulate the reason for consultation when requesting specialist input. Provide a detailed patient history and any relevant findings.
- - Referral Protocols: Follow established referral protocols, ensuring that all necessary documentation is completed and communicated to the appropriate team.
- - Follow-Up: Track the outcomes of consultations and referrals to ensure continuity of care.
Supervision and Reporting Hierarchy
As a resident, you will work under the supervision of attending physicians and senior residents. Understanding the reporting hierarchy is essential for efficient and safe patient care.
- - Supervision: Always seek supervision for procedures and decisions beyond your level of training or experience. This ensures patient safety and your professional development.
- - Chain of Command: Adhere to the chain of command when reporting issues or concerns. Escalate any serious concerns to the attending physician or program director.
- - Feedback: Be open to feedback from supervisors and use it constructively to improve your clinical skills and knowledge.
Academic Responsibilities
Conferences and Educational Sessions
Residents are expected to attend and participate in various educational sessions, including grand rounds, case discussions, and specialty conferences.
- - Mandatory Attendance: Attendance at designated educational sessions is mandatory unless you are on approved leave or clinical duties prevent attendance.
- - Active Participation: Engage actively in discussions during conferences and educational sessions. This enhances your learning and contributes to the collective knowledge of your peers.
- - Presentations: You may be required to present cases or research findings at conferences. Prepare thoroughly and seek feedback from mentors before presenting.
Journal Clubs
Journal clubs are an integral part of your academic development, helping you stay current with the latest medical literature and practice evidence-based medicine.
- - Article Selection: Select relevant and high-impact articles for discussion. Focus on articles that can influence clinical practice or contribute to your specialty.
- - Critical Appraisal: Develop skills in critically appraising research articles, assessing the validity, impact, and applicability of the findings.
- - Discussion Leadership: Lead journal club discussions when assigned, facilitating meaningful dialogue among your peers.
Teaching Responsibilities
As a resident, you will also take on teaching responsibilities, mentoring medical students and junior residents. Teaching is an important aspect of your professional development and contributes to the academic environment.
- - Teaching Rounds: Participate in teaching rounds, sharing your knowledge and clinical experience with medical students and junior residents.
- - Mentorship: Act as a mentor to junior colleagues, offering guidance and support in both clinical and academic matters.
- - Feedback: Provide constructive feedback to students and junior residents, helping them improve their clinical skills and knowledge.
Research and Scholarly Activities
Engagement in research and scholarly activities is strongly encouraged during your residency. This not only contributes to the medical field but also enhances your own knowledge and career prospects.
- - Research Participation: Take an active role in research projects, whether clinical, translational, or basic science. Seek out opportunities that align with your interests.
- - Publications: Aim to publish your research findings in peer-reviewed journals. Collaborate with faculty members and fellow residents on publications.
- - Conference Presentations: Present your research at institutional, national and international conferences. This is an excellent way to share your work, network with colleagues, and gain recognition in your field.
Examination and Certification Requirements
Residency training prepares you for various examinations and certifications required to practice independently in your chosen specialty.
- - Exams: Understand the requirements for local and international certifications in your specialty. Prepare well in advance and take advantage of the resources available to you.
- - Mock Exams: Participate in mock exams and preparatory courses offered by the program. These are valuable tools for assessing your readiness and identifying areas for further study.
Support Services
Counseling and Mental Health Support
Residency can be a demanding time, and it is important to take care of your mental health. Counseling and mental health services can be requested to support you throughout your training.
- - Confidential Services: Access confidential counseling services for any personal or professional concerns. These services may help you manage stress, anxiety, and other challenges.
- - Work-Life Balance: Strive to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Utilize wellness programs and seek support when needed.
Career Development and Mentorship
The residency program provides resources for your career development, including mentorship, career counseling, and networking opportunities.
- - Mentorship Program: Engage with the residency’s mentorship program, which pairs you with experienced faculty members who can offer guidance on career planning and professional development.
- - Networking Opportunities: Attend events and conferences to connect with professionals in your field and explore potential job opportunities.
Wellness Programs
Wellness and fitness programs can be available to promote your physical, emotional, and social well-being throughout your residency.
- - Social Wellness: Build a supportive network among your colleagues. Attend social events and take time to unwind and relax.
Library and Learning Resources
Access to comprehensive learning resources is essential for your academic and clinical development.
- - Medical Library: Utilize the medical library’s extensive collection of textbooks, journals, and online resources. Library staff, at the main campus and Dekwane campus, are available to assist with literature searches and resource access.
- - Online Databases: Access online medical databases such as PubMed, UpToDate, and Cochrane Library for research and clinical decision-making.
- - Study Spaces: Take advantage of quiet study spaces available in the main campus and Dekwane libraries or designated areas within the hospital.
IT and Technical Support
Reliable IT and technical support are available in the affiliated hospitals to assist you with any technology-related issues that may arise during your residency.
- - Medical Records Support: Receive training on the various medical record systems available in each affiliated hospital and seek technical support when needed.
- - Technical Assistance: Contact the IT helpdesk for assistance with computer systems, software, and hospital intranet access.
- - Online Learning Platforms: Access online learning platforms provided by the residency program for educational modules, quizzes, and other training materials.
Resident Benefits
Stipends and Salary Structure
Residents receive a stipend and benefits package designed to support them throughout their training.
- - Stipend Payments: Stipends are paid by the training site on a regular basis, typically monthly. Be sure to understand the salary structure that was shared with you upon enrolling in the residency.
Hospital Accommodation
Accommodation options may be available to residents based on availability and hospital policies. This is often not available or guaranteed.
Accident Insurance
Residents are provided with emergency accident insurance coverage, ensuring access to accident medical coverage during your training.
- - Health Insurance Enrollment: You may enroll in the university health insurance plan upon starting your residency. A certain fee applies. Deadlines for enrollment are strict.
Maternity Leave
The residency program offers maternity and paternity leave to support residents during significant life events such as the birth or adoption of a child.
- - Leave Duration: The duration of maternity leave is determined by both the university and the affiliated hospital policies and may vary. This leave is typically unpaid. Be sure to discuss your leave plans with your program director well in advance.
- - Notification: Notify your program director as early as possible regarding your leave plans to allow for adequate coverage of your responsibilities. You may be asked to delay your graduation until to compensate for the time of this leave.
- - Return to Work: Work with your program director to plan your return to work, including any necessary adjustments to your schedule or duties.
Meal Plans Services
Residents have access to meal plans and cafeteria services during long shifts based on local policies at the affiliated training sites.
Parking and Transportation
Paid or unpaid parking facilities are not typically provided but the affiliated hospitals.
Evaluation and Progression
Competency-Based Evaluation
Your progress during residency is evaluated based on a competency-based framework, ensuring that you meet the standards required for independent practice.
- - Evaluation Criteria: Your performance will be evaluated across multiple competencies, including medical knowledge, patient care, communication skills, professionalism, practice-based learning, and systems-based practice.
- - Regular Assessments: Expect regular assessments from your attending physicians, supervisors, and peers. These assessments may include written evaluations, direct observation, and 360-degree feedback.
- - Self-Evaluation: You may be occasionally requested to engage in self-evaluation to reflect on your strengths and areas for improvement.
Feedback Mechanisms
Constructive feedback is essential for your development as a resident. Most of our training programs have established mechanisms to ensure you receive regular and meaningful feedback.
- - Formal Feedback: You may be asked to participate in scheduled feedback sessions with your program director or supervising physician. These sessions provide an opportunity to discuss your performance and set goals.
- - Action Plans: Based on feedback, you may be required to develop an action plan to address specific areas of improvement.
If you encounter difficulties during your residency, the program offers remediation support to help you get back on track. However, persistent issues may result in probation.
- - Remediation Plans: If deficiencies are identified, you will work with your program director to develop a remediation plan that outlines specific steps to improve your performance.
- - Probation: Failure to meet the terms of the remediation plan may result in probation. During probation, you will receive intensified supervision and support.
- - Dismissal: In rare cases, failure to make progress during probation may lead to dismissal from the program. This decision is made only after thorough review and consideration by the Postgraduate Medical Education (PGME) office.
Promotion to the next year of residency is contingent upon meeting specific criteria, including satisfactory performance evaluations, completion of required rotations, and fulfillment of academic responsibilities.
- - Annual Review: Your performance will be reviewed annually to determine your eligibility for promotion to the next level of training.
- - Competency Milestones: You must achieve specific competency milestones to be eligible for promotion. These milestones are different in various residency program’s curriculum.
- - Remediation Opportunities: If you do not meet the criteria for promotion, you may be given the opportunity to complete additional training or remediation.
Grievance Procedures
The residency program provides a formal process for residents to raise concerns or grievances regarding their training, work environment, or interactions with colleagues.
- - Conflict Resolution: Attempt to resolve conflicts at the lowest possible level, starting with direct communication with the involved parties.
- - Program Director Involvement: If conflicts cannot be resolved informally, escalate the issue to your program director or the PGME and the hospital administration.
Residency Completion
Graduation Requirements
To successfully complete your residency program, you must meet all graduation requirements, including clinical, academic, and professional milestones.
- - Completion of Rotations:Successfully complete all required rotations, including any elective rotations, to fulfill your residency requirements.
- - Research Project: Complete and present a research project as required by your program. This may include a publication.
- - Certification Exams: Pass any required in-training exams as stipulated by your specialty.
Exit Interviews
At the end of your residency, you may be asked to participate in an exit interview with your program director. This interview provides an opportunity to reflect on your residency experience and discuss your future career plans.
- - Feedback: Provide feedback on the residency program, including any suggestions for improvement. Your input is valuable for future residents.
- - Career Planning: Discuss your post-residency career plans and receive guidance on job opportunities, fellowship programs, or further training.
- - Alumni Relations: Learn about opportunities to stay connected with the program and contribute as an alumnus.
Alumni Network and Continuing Medical Education (CME)
Upon completing your residency, you will join the UOB alumni network, which offers opportunities for continuing medical education (CME) and professional development.
- - Alumni Events: Participate in alumni events, reunions, and conferences to stay connected with your peers and faculty.
- - CME Opportunities: Engage in CME activities offered by UOB and affiliated institutions to maintain your licensure and stay current in your field.
- - Networking: Leverage the alumni network to explore job opportunities, collaborate on research, and stay informed about advancements in medicine.
Job Placement Support
The residency program will do its best to provide resources and support to help you secure employment or fellowship positions after graduation.
- - Job Fairs: Attend job fairs and recruitment events organized by the program or affiliated hospitals.
- - References: Obtain letters of recommendation and references from faculty members who have supervised your training.
Emergency Procedures
Code Blue and Other Emergency Codes
Familiarize yourself with the hospital’s emergency codes, including Code Blue (cardiac arrest), to ensure you respond appropriately in critical situations.
- - Code Blue: In the event of a Code Blue, immediately call for help, initiate CPR, and follow the hospital’s resuscitation protocols.
- - Other Codes: Understand the meanings and appropriate responses for other emergency codes, such as Code Red (fire), Code Black (bomb threat), and Code Orange (hazardous materials).
- - Training: Participate in regular emergency drills and training sessions to stay prepared for any emergency situation.
Fire Safety and Evacuation Plans
Fire safety is paramount in a hospital setting. Know the fire safety protocols and evacuation routes in your work areas.
- - Fire Drills: Participate in fire drills and ensure you are familiar with the location of fire alarms, extinguishers, and exits.
- - Evacuation Routes: Know the designated evacuation routes and assembly points for your department.
- - Emergency Contacts: Keep emergency contact numbers readily available and know whom to notify in case of a fire or other emergency.
Disaster Response Protocols
Hospitals must be prepared for a wide range of disasters, including natural disasters, pandemics, and mass casualty events. Familiarize yourself with the hospital’s disaster response plan.
- - Disaster Response Team: Know the roles and responsibilities of the disaster response team and how to integrate into the response efforts.
- - Communication: Ensure you know the communication channels and protocols during a disaster, including how to receive and relay critical
- - Emergency Supplies: Familiarize yourself with the location and contents of emergency supply kits, including medical supplies, food, water, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
- - Patient Triage: Understand the triage process during mass casualty events. Prioritize care based on the severity of patient injuries and available resources.
- - Pandemic Response: Be aware of the protocols for pandemic response, including infection control measures, patient isolation, and resource allocation.
Radiation and Hazardous Material Safety
Handling radiation and hazardous materials requires strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent harm to patients, staff, and yourself.
- - Radiation Safety: Follow all radiation safety guidelines, including the use of lead aprons, shields, and dosimeters when working with or near radiation sources.
- - Hazardous Materials: Properly handle, store, and dispose of hazardous materials according to hospital policies. This includes biohazards, chemicals, and radioactive materials.
- - Spill Response: Know the procedures for responding to spills of hazardous materials, including containment, cleanup, and reporting.
Violence Prevention and Security Protocols
Hospitals can be environments where incidents of violence occur. Understanding and adhering to security protocols is vital to maintaining a safe work environment.
- - Security Alerts: Be aware of the hospital’s security alert systems, including how to report and respond to threats or incidents.
- - Personal Safety: Always be mindful of your personal safety. Avoid isolated areas, especially during night shifts, and know the quickest routes to security stations.
Resident Responsibilities, Professionalism and Ethical Standards
Residents are expected to adhere to the highest standards of professionalism and ethics in all interactions with patients, colleagues, and staff.
- - Patient Confidentiality: Strictly maintain patient confidentiality at all times. This includes safeguarding all patient records and information.
- - Ethical Decision-Making: Make decisions based on ethical principles, prioritizing patient welfare, autonomy, and informed consent.
- - Professional Conduct: Demonstrate professionalism in your demeanor, punctuality, communication, and respect for others.
Cultural Competency
Providing culturally competent care is essential in a diverse healthcare environment. This involves understanding and respecting the cultural, social, and religious backgrounds of patients.
- - Cultural Awareness: Be aware of the cultural differences that may influence patient beliefs, behaviors, and healthcare decisions.
- - Respect for Beliefs: Respect patients' cultural and religious beliefs, even when they differ from your own. This includes accommodating dietary restrictions, prayer needs, and end-of-life preferences.
Resident-Patient Boundaries
Maintaining appropriate boundaries with patients is crucial to your role as a resident physician.
- - Professional Boundaries: Avoid any behavior or communication that could be perceived as crossing professional boundaries. This includes social interactions and personal disclosures.
- - Gifts and Gratitude: Politely decline gifts or favors from patients or their families, as accepting them may create conflicts of interest.
- - Reporting Concerns: If you ever feel that boundaries are being crossed by a patient or colleague, report your concerns to your program director immediately.
Social media can be a valuable tool for education and communication but must be used responsibly to protect patient privacy and professional integrity.
- - Confidentiality on Social Media:Never share any patient information on social media, even in anonymized or de-identified forms.
- - Professional Representation: Maintain a professional presence on social media. Be mindful of how your posts, comments, and shares reflect on you as a healthcare professional.
- - Hospital Policies: Adhere to the hospital’s social media policies and guidelines, which may include restrictions on the use of social media during work hours.
Time Management and Work-Life Balance
Effective time management is essential to balancing the demands of residency with personal life, preventing burnout and ensuring long-term success.
- - Prioritization: Learn to prioritize tasks effectively, focusing on urgent and important responsibilities first.
- - Delegation: When appropriate, delegate tasks to junior residents, medical students, or support staff to manage your workload more efficiently.
- - Self-Care: Make time for self-care, including regular exercise, hobbies, and time with family and friends. Maintaining a work-life balance is key to your well-being.
Attendance and Punctuality
Consistent attendance and punctuality are fundamental responsibilities in residency training.
- - Attendance Policy: Understand the residency program’s attendance policy, including procedures for reporting absences due to illness or personal emergencies.
- - Punctuality: Arrive on time for all shifts, meetings, and educational sessions. Punctuality reflects your professionalism and commitment.
- - Leave Requests: Submit leave requests well in advance, following the program’s guidelines for vacation, conference attendance, and personal time.
The Residency Handbook is your comprehensive guide to navigating your training at the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Balamand. It outlines the expectations, resources, and support available to you as you embark on this critical phase of your medical career. Your commitment to excellence, professionalism, and continuous learning will be the foundation of your success as a resident physician.
Should you have any questions or require further clarification on any aspect of the handbook, do not hesitate to reach out to your program director, faculty members, or PGME office and administrative staff. We are here to support you in achieving your goals and becoming a skilled and compassionate physician.
We wish you the best of luck in your residency training and look forward to your contributions to the field of medicine.
Faculty of Postgraduate Medical Education
University of Balamand