Internal medicine training in ambulatory gynecology

Objective: To assess internists’ perceptions of their training in the management of common problems in ambulatory gynecology and to compare these perceptions with their clinical practice experiences. Methods: We surveyed 325 internists in the Portland, Oregon, metropolitan area about their residency training and practice experiences in the diagnosis and management of 25 clinical problems in ambulatory gynecology and five nongynecologic problems. Results: Responses were received from 159 internists (48.5%). Overall, the internists reported relatively little residency training in the management of many common gynecologic disorders. Women internists managed gynecologic problems more than did their male counterparts, independent of the number of women patients in their practices. Conclusions: Internal medicine residency programs need to expand training in ambulatory gynecology to better prepare graduates for clinical practice.