Impact of implementing multisource feedback on behaviors of young doctors

OBJECTIVES: Multisource feedback (MSF) is a workplace-based assessment tool that offers 360-degree evaluation of the trainee doctor. Little is known about its receptiveness among stakeholders in Pakistan. This study explores house officers’ perceptions regarding MSF since its implementation in Eye Unit-II, Institute of Ophthalmology, King Edward Medical University/ Mayo Hospital, Lahore. METHODS: A qualitative case study was conducted from July 2019 to February 2020 in Eye Unit II. A purposive (maximum variation) sample of 12 house surgeons was taken. Two focus group discussions were conducted. Data were transcribed and analyzed thematically. RESULTS: The study identified the impact of MSF on house surgeons. Most participants reported positive experiences. The feedback they received increased their motivation, management skills and team working. A number of factors affecting the receptiveness of MSF were also identified which mainly included characteristics of raters and emotional response to MSF. CONCLUSION: Multisource Feedback is a useful tool for feedback that impacts the young doctors in many ways. It contributes to increasing their sense of responsibility, management skills and self-directed learning. The improvement in individual abilities and teamwork also helped in improving patient care.