Abstract
Struggling trainees exist in all residency programs across all fields. Remediation,
the act of improving deficiencies in struggling trainees, is necessary to promote
the graduation of competent physicians. Deficiencies may be primarily cognitive or
behavioral, and occasionally physical limitations do arise during residency. Remediation
is challenging for all parties involved, and there is a paucity of literature to help
guide the most effective process. In this review, we outline key principles of effective
remediation of a struggling trainee in the modern era of medical education. A systematic
approach that begins early, is consistent, and remains sensitive to a trainee's need
for self-reflection in a nonjudgmental culture is essential for successfully remediating
a trainee.
Keywords
remediation - feedback - milestones - mentorship - competency