Typically a supervisor conducts his clinical assessment at the end of a teaching term or rotation. Formative meetings at the beginning, middle and the end of the term or rotation help to improve the assessment process. These meetings establish clear guidelines for a trainee to follow before any final decisions are made about a trainee's performance.
The supervisor carrying out the clinical assessments must be appropriately qualified in the relevant professional discipline. The supervisor must also have experience in working with the trainee on a day-to-day basis. The supervisor discusses her observations and experience in supervising the trainee.
A supervisor's clinical assessment evaluates the trainee as a medical expert. The supervisor reviews the trainee's knowledge of the discipline, management of patients and decision-making skills. The supervisor looks for competence in discussing applicable treatment principles and in making appropriate recommendations on the various options.
A supervisor's clinical assessment may also review a trainee's other skills such as communication and collaboration. The supervisor looks for clarity in the trainee's instructions or advice, the ability to establish rapport with others and to encourage active participation in treatment decisions. The supervisor also looks for evidence of cooperative relationships with other medical experts.