Physicians in Residence Program: An Evaluation of a Novel Substance Abuse Training Approach for Residents in Primary Care Specialties

This paper describes the Physicians in Residence Program (PIR), a program developed to train medical housestaff, at the Hazelden Fellowship Club, a halfway house in Manhattan. The housestaff (n = 31), who were trained at different times, heard two daily lectures by experienced physicians on diverse topics. They received training and practice in interviewing, assessment, and treatment planning. They participated in halfway house resident support groups and spent informal time interacting with Hazelden residents. Evaluation included (a) pre- and postprogram self-reports, (b) daily significant event sheets, and (c) overall program evaluation. Using paired mean t tests, the housestaff reported improvements (P < 0.001) in their interviewing and referral skills, knowledge, attitudes, and role confidence. All components of the program received ratings of “good” to “excellent” and were viewed as helpful. The highest ratings were those that included observation, practice of skills, and interactions with Hazelden residents.