Innovative training in pediatrics, general psychiatry, and child psychiatry: background, outcomes, and experiences.

OBJECTIVES

The authors describe the history, rationale, and outcomes of combined training programs in pediatrics, psychiatry, and child psychiatry ("triple board"), including narrative feedback from graduates and reflections upon the important components of the program.

METHODS

This article reviews the background and experiences of triple board graduates and programs using published data regarding triple board history and outcomes, reflections and follow-up information collected from triple board graduates as part of a national triple board network development, and direct experiences with triple board training programs.

RESULTS

The triple board training program provides a unique training background for physicians who serve children and their families. The programs train physicians who seek out additional training opportunities, succeed in passing board certification examinations, and earn national recognition. Additionally, feedback from graduates reflects satisfaction with training experiences.

CONCLUSION

The outcomes from this experiment in integrated training in child psychiatry support the consideration of expanding triple board training programs and introducing new innovations in training.