REVISÃO INTEGRATIVA: UMA REFLEXÃO SOBRE CONTRIBUIÇÕES E IMPACTOS DOS CURSOS PREPARATÓRIOS PARA A RESIDÊNCIA MÉDICA

Abstract

Introduction: Medical education has undergone constant transformations, aiming to integrate theory and practice more effectively. Facing the challenges inherent to the learning process in Medicine, many students resort to complementary educational strategies, such as preparatory courses for medical residency. In this context, the Progress Test (PT) stands out as a relevant tool to assess cognitive development and identify learning gaps. The choice of this topic is justified by the increasing demand for such courses and the scarcity of studies analyzing their impact on academic training and students’ performance.Objectives:This study aimed to analyze the impact of preparatory courses for medical residency on students’ education and performance in selection processes. Furthermore, it sought to identify the positive and negative effects resulting from these courses and to discuss the role of the Progress Test as a complementary instrument for assessment and preparation .Methodology:This is a narrative literature review conducted between July and September 2025. The databases SciELO, PubMed, and Google Scholar were searched using descriptors related to “preparatory courses,” “medical residency,” and “progress test.” Articles published in Portuguese and English that addressed the impact of these strategies on academic performance and the teaching-learning process in Medicine were included.Conclusion: The findings indicate that the growing demand for preparatory courses reflects both the high competitiveness and economic inequalities in access to medical residency. Although these courses can improve performance in selection exams, they may also widen disparities among students. The Progress Test, when associated with mentoring and pedagogical support, proved effective in monitoring learning and enhancing residency preparation. It is concluded that institutional policies promoting equity and integrating evaluative methodologies are essential to strengthen medical education and improve outcomes in residency selection processes.

Keywords: Medical education. Medical residency, Educational assessment, Medical internship.