Effectiveness of the educational training program for Japanese chief residents: A one-year pilot study

Background: Multi-institutional faculty development programs for chief residents were lacking in Japan. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the program for enhancing the knowledge and behaviors of chief residents at the national level. Methods: Six participants completed self-assessment questionnaires at three points: before, immediately after, and 6 months post-program. Knowledge and behavior changes were compared using the Mann–Whitney U test. Results: Significant improvements in knowledge were observed and maintained at 6 months. However, behavioral changes were limited, with significant improvements only in counseling skills. Conclusion: The program effectively increased knowledge but faced challenges in translating it into sustained behavioral change.