General
july effect
What does july effect mean?
The folk (and studied) phenomenon of increased mistakes at teaching hospitals when the newest cohort of residents begins in early July. UK equivalent: 'Black Wednesday.'
"Take extra care with the plans — it's peak July effect."
Origin
US graduate-medical-education timing; widely discussed in the literature.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 'July effect'?
It's the phenomenon of increased mistakes at US teaching hospitals when the newest cohort of residents begins work in early July.
What's the UK equivalent?
The UK equivalent is called 'Black Wednesday.'
Is the July effect real?
It's both a folk belief and a studied phenomenon, widely discussed in the medical literature.
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