BACKGROUND: Numerous selection criteria have been developed to assess the appropriate attributes and behavior expected of an Internist. The traditional personal interview format, however, cannot sufficiently evaluate professionalism competency and it has a low reliability and validity.

OBJECTIVE: This study will conduct an extensive review and describe the existing interview portion of the residency selection process of the UP-PGH Department of Medicine and attempt to develop an effective structure multiple mini interview to replace the traditional format.

METHODS: Review of Department records and consultant interviews will be conducted prior to the development of new structure situational interview.

RESULTS: An MMI has been developed consisting of 6 domains evaluated in separate stations. Each domain pertains to an attribute or behavior deemed important in the resident's professional career, namely honesty, teamwork, respect for authority, time management, ethical behavior on the use of emerging technologies and in dealing with the pharmaceutical industry. A 5-point evaluation system will determine the interviewee's appropriateness and acceptability of behavior.

CONCLUSION: An MMI has been developed to evaluate appropriateness of behavior when presented with actual situations that may occur on-the-job.