Clinical excellence in endocrinology

Abstract

Context Clinical endocrinology is a field driven largely by numerical parameters. To achieve outstanding patient care, however, the clinical endocrinologist must use a range of skills that can collectively be called "clinical excellence." Although there is extensive published guidance regarding appropriate medical management and outcomes for endocrine patients, there has been no consensus definition of excellence in the field nor any recommendation as to how excellence can be achieved. Design Literature review, review of websites of professional societies, clinical organizations, and government agencies. Interventions After review of endocrine clinical outcomes guidelines and published descriptions of clinical excellence generally, key aspects of clinical excellence in endocrinology were derived: the ability to work in teams, communication and interpersonal skills, skillful negotiation of the health care system, and a strong knowledge base and scholarly approach. Examples of how these skills drive superior outcomes for patients are discussed. Conclusions Clinical excellence in endocrinology is necessary to optimize care for endocrine patients. A definition of clinical excellence should be adopted by professional societies and medical institutions and its importance in patient care recognized and emphasized. Efforts should be undertaken in the context of endocrine fellowship training and faculty development to foster the skills inherent in clinical excellence.