Authors: Danielle D. Wentzell, Christopher Hanson, Helen Chung, Patrick Gooi
Author Disclosure Block: D.D. Wentzell: None. C. Hanson: None. H. Chung: None. P. Gooi: Consultant: Alcon, Allergan, Bausch and Lomb, Glaukos, Santen.

Abstract Body:

Purpose: To develop resident assessment modalities for performance in selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) and Nd:YAG laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) that are suitable for the shift to competency-based medical education (CBME) in ophthalmology.
Study Design: Survey
Methods: A modified Delphi process was used to develop task-specific checklists and a global rating scale (GRS) for SLT and LPI to assess resident performance. Well-established and previously studied global rating scales in surgical performance were adjusted for use in the GRS for these laser procedures. Eight practicing ophthalmologists with experience in performing the laser procedures were identified and agreed to be content experts. SimulEYE artificial eye models specifically designed for each laser procedure were used to develop the tools. The laser parameters and results in the checklist were adjusted to simulate real tissue effect. Content experts received copies of the assessment tools, videos of the eye models being used with the lasers, and a survey to collect feedback. The survey design was based off a previously study that utilized the Delphi method in ophthalmology education development. The comments were implemented into the assessment tools and redistributed to the content experts for further critiquing. The process was repeated until an 80% consensus on all survey items was achieved. Each round was completed over ten days, and consensus was reached after three rounds.
Results: A task-specific checklist for SLT and LPI, and a GRS to be used in conjunction with the checklists were produced with face and content validity.
Conclusions: Ophthalmology residency programs across Canada are implementing CBME into their curricula, and proof of competency in various procedural tasks will be required. These assessment tools can be used to evaluate resident performance in two commonly performed laser procedures that residents must be able to perform prior to graduation - selective laser trabeculoplasty and laser peripheral iridotomy. These tools allow for residents to develop their skills and receive feedback before performing these laser procedures on real patients. We have established face and content validity for these tools, however interrater and construct validity will need to be assessed in future studies.