The Annals of Thoracic Surgery, Vol 32, 222-229, Copyright © 1981 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons
Assurance
JL Ankeney
The Society of Thoracic Surgeons was created for practicing thoracic
surgeons, but the response to recertification indicates there has been a
breakdown in communication between practicing thoracic surgeons and the
leadership of this Society and other decision-making organizations of our
specialty. To provide greater input and participation by members, it is
suggested that regional representatives be elected to the Council, open
discussion of issues important to thoracic surgeons be held at the Annual
Meetings, small-group clinical workshops be added to the Scientific
Sessions to increase opportunity for participation, and more nonacademic
surgeons be included as members of working committees of the Society.
Recertification represents the third phase on the part of the medical
education and establishment of standards for postgraduate training. The
members' response to a questionnaire concerning recertification indicates
they agree that periodic review of competence should be available and that
they are willing to undergo peer review and fulfill requirements for
continuing medical education participation. They are opposed to
multiple-choice, cognitive examinations but would be in favor of a
self-education/self-assessment program to review knowledge. The periodic
review of competence should require review of performance, and a mechanism
for accomplishing this must be developed.
