Program Overview

The first year is structured to provide exposure to Endocrinology and Diabetes clinics, citywide inpatient consultation service, selective in Pathology, Nuclear Medicine, and Biochemistry, as well as a research block to pursue a scholarly project. Elective time and six weeks of Pediatric Endocrinology are also included within the first year.

Flexibility within the second year is a notable strength of the program allowing residents to pursue further clinical training, participate in a Master’s program, or focus on specialized training in an area of interest.

Multiple tools of assessment have been integrated into the curriculum to provide feedback to residents. These include an observed history and physical, mini-CEX assessments, 360 evaluations, a national in-training written examination, and rotation-specific ITARs. Endocrinology is scheduled to transition to CBD nationally in 2022; therefore, EPAs have not been introduced yet. The longitudinal clinic provides opportunities for mentorship and coaching that are valued highly by trainees.

We have a large catchment area that serves as a referral base for a spectrum of endocrine disorders providing residents with a rich and broad exposure to endocrine pathology. Given that it is a smaller program, residents have a greater opportunity to be involved with interesting cases. We also discuss such cases at our Mortality and Morbidity Rounds, which are focused on themes such as Adrenal, Pituitary, Thyroid, and General Endocrinology. Other learning activities include monthly Citywide Endocrinology Rounds and Journal Club, as well as a Visiting Professor event and Basic Science Seminar that are held annually. Residents also have the opportunity to attend review courses such as the Canadian Endocrine Review Course and attend or present at national or international conferences such as CSEM, Endocrine Society or ADA annual meetings.

The Academic Half Day curriculum is carefully designed to deliver teaching on core topics and program objectives outlined by the Royal College. Diabetes bootcamp sessions run by physicians and allied health professionals allow residents to be exposed to various aspects of diabetes management (CGM, pump technology, and psychosocial aspects) in the first two months of training.

Residents also attend subspecialty and QIPS half days, which are organized centrally to cover non-medical expert CanMEDS roles.

Objectives

At the end of the program, our trainees should be able to:

• Provide excellent patient-centred care for the full spectrum of endocrine disorders.
• Continue lifelong learning to maintain their competencies.
• Function as effective clinicians, researchers, educators or leaders based on their chosen career path.
• Apply principles of quality improvement and patient safety regardless of their practice setting.