The current state of esophagogastroduodenoscopy training in family practice residency programs

Background and Objectives: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is a useful diagnostic procedure to evaluate patients with upper gastrointestinal complaints. Although family physicians have demonstrated that they can competently perform EGD, only a minority of family physicians perform EGD. This study determined the current state of EGD training in US family practice residency programs and how often graduating residents seek EGD privileges. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study surveying program directors from all Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-approved family practice residency programs regarding EGD training in their program. Results: Of the 471 surveys mailed, 441 (94%) were returned. A total of 143 (32%) program directors reported that their program offered EGD training, but only 58 (13%) actually trained at least one resident. Residents performed a mean of 20 ± 2.4 EGDs per resident, and residents trained by family physicians performed more EGDs than residents trained by other specialties. In July 2000, .04% of graduating family practice residents sought credentials for EGD, and their training occurred in 32 (7%) residency programs. Conclusions: Only a minority of family practice residents seek credentialing after residency to perform EGD.