Multi-source Qualitative Analysis of Emergency Medicine Residency Programmes in Chile: A Case Study

Background: Emergency Medicine (EM) is a developing specialty worldwide. In Chile, it has been developing for 25 years, however, there is a need for further progress. Aim: We aimed to explore the current postgraduate curriculum in Chile and identify ways to standardise and improve it. Methods: A qualitative case study approach was used to explore perspectives on EM curriculum development via interviewing residents, graduates and programme directors and documentary analysis of academic and governmental guidelines. Both data sets were evaluated through Thematic Analysis. Results: Four documents were analysed, and eight interviews conducted. Three main themes emerged from both data sets: curriculum structure, influence of context and expectations of an Emergency Physician . Additionally, interviews offered a fourth theme: perspectives of EM. They convey how current programmes focus on workplace learning and protected time for learning strategies, however, they differ in clinical exposure and quality of training. As a priority, collaboration was identified, emphasising a need for programmes to work together towards ensuring quality Conclusion: Overall, this study identifies similarities and differences among programmes, and common areas for improvement. There is agreement on the need for a standardized curriculum, considering local context and societal needs. This study assesses curriculum development, understanding cultural, social and educational influences.