Competency-based Training and the Competency Framework in Gynecology and Obstetrics in Brazil
Gustavo Salata Romão, Marcos Felipe Silva de Sá
Abstract
Although the idea of developing professional competency had been mentioned since the 1970s and 1980s,[1] [2] the term medical competency remained undefined until the 2000s, when a broad literature review was published with the aim to clarify its meaning.[3] In 2002, the result of this study was published in JAMA by Epstein and Hundert,[3] and medical competency was defined as "the habitual and judicious use of communication, knowledge, technical skills, clinical reasoning, emotions, values, and reflection in daily practice for the benefit of the individual and the community to be served." This made it clear how much the concept of competency differs from skill. The latter is used to designate the ability to perform specific technical-cognitive acts and actions such as intrauterine device insertion, obstetric examination, delivery care maneuvers, and the communication of bad news. The concept of competency is broader and includes the integration of knowledge, skills, and attitudes.[3] [4] Therefore, medical competency is a multidimensional term and comprises a set of cognitive, technical, integrative, interpersonal, and affective-moral domains, as well as mental habits.[3]