The Feedback Formula

Feedback is a struggle. We struggle with the timing, the delivery, the content, and even the goal of feedback itself. The Feedback Formula is a very helpful approach to providing feedback that addresses these challenges while preserving the working relationships of trainees and their supervisors.

Image from upsplash.com

Image from upsplash.com


In April 2018, we held a Wellness Retreat for the emergency medicine residents at Stanford University. One half-day of the retreat was dedicated to the topic of feedback.

Why feedback at a wellness retreat?

As Lisa Stefanac of KSE Leadership taught us, “Feedback is about relationship building, not simply about performance improvement.” A safe and healthy learning environment stems from the professional relationships of medical educators and their trainees.

The Feedback Formula is a 6-Step framework for providing actionable feedback through the lens of building relationships. Read more about the use of The Feedback Formula in “The Feedback Formula: Part 1, Giving Feedback” on International Clinician Educators’ Blog.

March 11, 2019


Co-Author: Lisa Stefanac, KSE Leadership, San Francisco, CA