American Osteopathic Association Approves Changes in Intern/Resident Work Hours

7/20/2002

From: Mary Ann M. Pagaduan, AOA Press Room (July 19 and 20), 312-565-8000, All other times: 800-621-1773, ext. 8040, or Mike Campea, 312-565-8000, 800-621-1773, ext. 8043

CHICAGO, July 20 -- The American Osteopathic Association's (AOA) Board of Trustees has approved an 80-hour work week for all interns and residents in osteopathic training programs. These changes must take place by only those programs that hold AOA accreditation by Nov. 1. For those programs with dual accreditation from the AOA and the ACGME, the programs must implement the changes by July 1, 2003.

The decision also mandates that interns and residents may not work in excess of 24 consecutive hours exclusive of morning and noon educational programs. It does allow up to six hours for inpatient and outpatient continuity and transfer of care. However, interns and residents may not assume responsibility for a new patient after 24 hours.

"The AOA recognizes that excessive numbers of hours worked by our intern and resident physicians can lead to errors in judgment," said James E. Zini, D.O., the 2001-2002 president of the AOA. "Patient safety is our number one priority, and that is the main reason the osteopathic profession will implement these changes this Fall."

The American Osteopathic Association represents approximately 47,000 osteopathic physicians (D.O.s), promotes public health, encourages scientific research, serves as the primary certifying body for D.O.s, and is the accrediting agency for all osteopathic medical schools and health care facilities.