How Informative are the Plastic Surgery Residency Websites to Prospective Applicants?

Lymphedema Surgical Education and Faculty Demographics in United States Plastic Surgery Residency Programs

BACKGROUND

 Recent advancements in supermicrosurgery and promising preliminary outcomes have led to a surge in physiologic lymphedema surgery. This study is the first to evaluate lymphedema surgical education among U.S. plastic surgery residency programs, along with the background and experience of plastic surgeons subspecializing in the field.

METHODS

 Cross-sectional evaluation of 103 accredited U.S. plastic surgery residency programs was performed in January 2023. Web-based searches of program curricula, faculty profiles, and main institutional pages indicated whether a program provided nonclinical or clinical exposure to lymphedema surgery. Review of online faculty profiles, surname searches, Doximity, and Scopus determined the perceived demographics, academic productivity, and procedures performed by lymphedema surgeons.

RESULTS

 Compared with the 11 programs that incorporated lymphedema surgery into their online curriculum, 67 programs had a rotation site with a surgeon performing lymphedema procedures. Of the 33 programs without evidence of clinical exposure, 76% (n = 25) did not provide or specify providing elective time. Faculty perceived to be female or a race underrepresented in plastic surgery had significantly more assistant professor titles (p < 0.0214) and significantly fewer years of experience (p < 0.0293) than their counterparts.

CONCLUSION

 Great variation in lymphedema surgical education exists among U.S. plastic surgery residency programs. While few programs incorporate lymphedema surgery into their advertised curriculum, programs without clinical exposure frequently did not provide elective time to obtain it. Faculty that were female or a race underrepresented in plastic surgery were most often early in their career, suggesting lymphedema surgeons may grow increasingly diverse in years to come.

Visibility of International Rotations on Plastic Surgery Program Websites

Plastic surgery residency programs are offering increasing opportunities for international rotations, recognizing the importance of early exposure and the need to promote better capacity building in host countries. While a greater number of residency programs are offering international opportunities, it is not clear whether applicants are aware of these opportunities based on program websites. The purpose of this study was to determine the availability and ease of access to international rotation information on plastic surgery residency websites. All 101 integrated and independent program websites were visited and assessed for information on international rotations. Programs were noted for any information about rotations and ease of access was determined based on the location of information on the website (homepage, 1 or 2 clicks from homepage, and greater than 2 clicks). Approximately 33% of programs offered any information on international rotations on their program websites. Thirty-six percent of these program websites displayed information on their homepage ("Easy"); 30% of these programs displayed their information 1 or 2 clicks away from the homepage ("Moderate"); and 33% of these programs displayed their information greater than 2 clicks away from the homepage ("Difficult"). Previous studies have established that international rotations are widely available to plastic surgery residents, but this study revealed that only a minority of residency programs are advertising this opportunity on their websites. These data may serve to galvanize faculty to increase website visibility of available international rotations to better promote their programs and attract prospective residents who seek opportunities in global health care.

Evaluating Diversity Promotion on Integrated Plastic Surgery Residency Program Websites and Instagram Accounts

BACKGROUND

Medical students applying to residency, including those from underrepresented groups, strongly value cultural fit and program diversity. Program websites and social media are thus an influential information source for prospective applicants and recruitment tool for residencies. We evaluated whether and how integrated plastic surgery residency program websites and social media display commitments to diversity online.

METHODS

We evaluated program websites for 8 predetermined diversity elements, (1) nondiscrimination and (2) diversity statements, (3) community resources, (4) faculty and (5) resident biographies, (6) faculty and (7) resident photographs, and (8) resident resources, and assessed Instagram accounts for diversity-related images, captions, and hashtags. Our analysis used Mann-Whitney U , chi-squared, and t tests; significance level was P < 0.05.

RESULTS

We reviewed 82 program websites with a mean of 3.4 ± 1.4 diversity elements. Resident (n = 76, 92.7%) and faculty photographs (n = 65, 79.3%) and resident biographies (n = 43, 52.4%) were the most common. Seventy programs (85.4%) had Instagram accounts, the majority of which (n = 41, 58.6%) shared content related to diversity in race, ethnicity, gender, and/or sexual orientation. Programs located in smaller cities were more likely to have ≥4 website diversity elements ( P = 0.014) and mention diversity on Instagram ( P = 0.0037). Programs with women chairs/chiefs were more likely to mention diversity on Instagram ( P = 0.007).

CONCLUSIONS

In the age of virtual recruitment, program websites and social media should provide sufficient information, described in our diversity element checklist, to help prospective applicants determine fit from a diversity perspective. Residents, who often contribute to program social media, and women chairs/chiefs may be critical to driving diversity promotion.

Cross-Sectional Analysis of Neurosurgical Residency Websites During the Virtual Interview Cycle

BACKGROUND

The loss of in-person interviews during the COVID-19 pandemic warrants an investigation into what information is provided to applicants through neurosurgery residency program websites (NRPWs). This study examines NRPWs across the United States and Canada to determine what details are provided to applicants through their respective websites.

METHODS

Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education accredited neurologic surgery residency programs were identified through the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) website. NRPWs were searched for 48 criteria, including program overview, application requirements, and curriculum information. Small programs were defined as 1-2 residents per class, while large programs were classified as those with 3-4 residents per year. Content differences were analyzed between the top 20 and remaining programs per the Doximity Residency Navigator Rankings.

RESULTS

The most prevalent information among 122 NRPWs was the neurosurgery residency overview (95%), names of faculty members (95%), and names of current residents (94%). Top-20 NRPWs were more likely to include post PGY-7 fellowships (90% vs. 61% P = 0.0108), operating room virtual reality experience (35% vs. 12% P = 0.0160), and faculty research (90% vs. 62% P = 0.0182) than the remainder of the programs.

CONCLUSIONS

This study investigates NRPW content after the COVID-19 pandemic. We report broad variability in content provided by various neurosurgical training programs. Higher-ranked neurosurgery programs are more likely to include fellowship information, operating room virtual reality experience, and faculty research than lower-ranked programs.

The Impact of Social Media on Applicants' Perceptions of Plastic Surgery Training Programs

OBJECTIVE

Given recent COVID-19 restrictions on in-person visiting subinternships and interviews, this study sought to evaluate the program information that was most influential to future plastic surgery applicants as they researched residency programs on social media.

DESIGN AND SETTING

An electronic survey targeting medical students interested in plastic surgery was deployed to assess the importance of various information sources in forming perceptions of residency programs. Applicants were invited to participate through an Instagram "Story" (where the survey was embedded) and through an electronic survey link sent via email to interested program applicants and interviewees.

PARTICIPANTS AND RESULTS

There were 83 respondents, among which 92% were current medical students planning to apply to Plastic Surgery. The most utilized resources that informed program interest were: mentors (86%), peers/partners (60%), and geographic location preference (55%). Among social media content, applicants most desired posts about resident life (66%) and team bonding activities (61%). Overall, 72% of respondents agreed/strongly agreed that social media played a role in informing their interest to apply to a specific residency program.

CONCLUSION

The study demonstrated that prospective plastic surgery applicants expect programs to have a social media presence, and thus, programs should invest time and thought in their social media strategy. While electronic sources are not the most important sources of information rated among applicants, social media plays an influential role in guiding interest in specific programs. To best inform applicant perspectives during the recruiting process, programs should prioritize content that gives a picture of "resident life" and team dynamics.

Evaluation of sleep medicine fellowship program websites

STUDY OBJECTIVES

Sleep fellowship program websites likely serve as a preliminary source of information for prospective fellows. Arguably, applicants have likely become even more reliant on program websites during the COVID-19 pandemic due to travel restrictions and social-distancing measures limiting in-person interviews. In this study, we evaluated the content and comprehensiveness of sleep medicine fellowship websites to identify areas of improvement.

METHODS

A list of sleep medicine fellowship programs in the United States participating in the 2021 match cycle was compiled using the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and Fellowship and Residency Electronic Interactive database (FREIDA) websites. Twenty-two prespecified content criteria related to education, recruitment, and compensation were used to evaluate each program website. Sleep programs' website comprehensiveness were compared based on US location, type, matching status, core specialty, and size of programs.

RESULTS

Seventy-eight US sleep fellowship program websites were evaluated. Most program websites had a working hyperlink on ERAS or FREIDA. There was considerable variability in content reported across program websites, with a mean of 56.8% of content items reported per program. There was a greater educational website content comprehensiveness for internal medicine compared with other specialty-based sleep programs. There was no difference in sleep programs' website comprehensiveness based on US location, type, matching status, or size of programs.

CONCLUSIONS

Website content comprehensiveness among sleep fellowship programs is variable. There is opportunity for all sleep fellowship programs to improve their websites to better inform prospective trainees.

CITATION

Shenoy S, Akberzie W, Landeo-Gutierrez JS, Leon Guerrero CR, Karroum EG. Evaluation of sleep medicine fellowship program websites. J Clin Sleep Med. 2023;19(6):1083-1088.

Strategies to Reduce Congestion in the Resident Match: What Can Plastic Surgery Learn from Other Specialties?

Many medical specialties are experiencing congestion in the residency match process because of increasing competition amongst applicants to secure a training position. With rising application numbers for a stable number of positions, the result is an inefficient use of time and financial resources on behalf of both the residency applicants and programs. Solutions to address congestion in the match process have been proposed in the literature, and other specialties have implemented specialty-wide reforms.

Methods

The Pubmed and Web of Science databases were queried using keywords related to the residency match and resident selection. The initial search yielded 372 results. Titles and abstracts were evaluated for inclusion and 93 articles met criteria for full-text evaluation. The bibliographies of these publications were reviewed for additional references.

Results

Numerous strategies to reduce congestion in the match were identified across specialties. Implemented reforms include a centralized preference signaling system, an interview cap, a staged or consortia match, and publication of transparent program-specific resident selection criteria. We discuss pros and cons of different strategies to reduce congestion in the match and summarize the effects that recent reforms have had on other specialties.

Conclusions

Plastic surgery as a field is at a distinct advantage to be a leader in transforming the residency match process, as we are a small and historically innovative group. We hope to spark discussion amongst students, residents, and program faculty with the goal of creating a more efficient match process.

Are pediatric surgery fellowship websites ready for the changing paradigms in the virtual interview era?

Purpose

With the COVID-19 pandemic, in-person fellowship interviews were curtailed, leading candidates to seek information from other resources. Our main purposes were (1) to determine what information recent participants in the match needed to evaluate programs and (2) to assess which of these were available online.

Methods

A focus group of ten recent graduates/applicants identified information that was important in choosing a fellowship program. In August 2020 and December 2021, websites belonging to the American Pediatric Surgical Association (APSA) and individual programs were assessed.

Results

Recent applicants identified 55 pieces of information considered important to their decision making. Of 57 pediatric surgery fellowships, 98% were listed on APSA's website. Program descriptions on APSA's website listed on average 60% of program information desired by applicants. All listed fellowship director, accreditation status, faculty list, and current fellow(s). Other descriptors frequently noted were alumni (95%), graduate's board performance (83%), ECMO exposure (77%), and curriculum (70%). Information desired but less frequently available were fellow case logs (63%), trauma center designation (53%), burn center designation (40%), research opportunities (30%), candidate interview assistance (25%), and supplemental fellowships (12%). There were 7% of program descriptions that were not updated for at least a year.

Conclusions

APSA and individual program websites were complimentary. Websites often lacked data that applicants sought to inform their rank list. To best adapt to the evolving virtual interview paradigm, we suggest reporting key information on a central APSA website with more nuanced information available via links to program specific websites.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s44186-023-00104-w.

Medical residency match applicants undervalue factors that predict stress and burnout

In the medical residency match process, applicants' ranking decisions are influenced by multiple factors related to training, geography, and lifestyle expectations. Ranking decisions directly impact match results, with implications for emotional outcomes such as happiness and stress. The present study explored the decision factors considered most important by applicants when creating rank order lists (ROLs), and how match outcomes and program factors predicted happiness, enthusiasm, stress, and life satisfaction. Senior medical students (n = 182) at a large public university in California completed surveys at three timepoints, spanning from shortly before Match Day to several months into PGY-1. Study findings support that both program-related (e.g., training quality, program size) and non-program-related (e.g., geography, work life balance) factors are important to applicants when making ROL decisions. Applicants who matched with their top choice program initially experienced emotional benefits, but these emotional differences did not persist into PGY-1, where all matched applicants had similar levels of emotion and life satisfaction. The emotional cost and benefits of matching with programs of different ROL positions (e.g., matching with top-choice program or not) were most apparent shortly after matching but in the long-term, a stronger predictor of PGY-1 emotions was perceived person-program alignment. Person-program alignment (e.g., call schedule, patient caseload) also predicted burnout in the first few months of a residency program. These findings show that, when applicants are making ranking decisions, they undervalue factors that predict stress and burnout during residency.

Critical Comparison of the Quality and Content of Integrated Vascular Surgery, Thoracic Surgery, and Interventional Radiology Residency Training Program Websites: Qualitative Study

BACKGROUND

With the move to virtual interviewing, residency websites are an important recruitment resource, introducing applicants to programs across the country and allowing for comparison. Recruitment is highly competitive from a common potential pool between vascular surgery, thoracic surgery, and interventional radiology with the ratio of applicants to positions being highest in interventional radiology, followed by thoracic surgery and lastly vascular surgery, as reported by the National Resident Matching Program.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to evaluate the accessibility and availability of online content for those integrated residency programs.

METHODS

A list of accredited vascular surgery, thoracic surgery, and interventional radiology residencies was obtained from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) database. Program websites were evaluated by trained independent reviewers (n=2) for content items pertaining to program recruitment and education (scored absent or present). Statistical analysis was performed in R software.

RESULTS

Of ACGME-accredited programs, 56 of 61 (92%) vascular surgery, 27 of 27 (100%) thoracic surgery, and 74 of 85 (87%) interventional radiology programs had functional websites (P=.12). Vascular surgery websites contained a median of 26 (IQR 20-32) content items, thoracic surgery websites contained a median of 27 (IQR 21-32) content items, and interventional radiology websites contained a median of 23 (IQR 18-27) content items. Two content items considered highly influential to applicant program decisions are procedural experience and faculty mentorship, which were reported at 32% (18/56) and 11% (6/56) for vascular surgery, 19% (5/27) and 11% (3/27) for thoracic surgery, and 50% (37/74) and 15% (11/74) for interventional radiology (P=.008 and P=.75), respectively. Key deficits were work hours, debt management, and curriculum for interventional radiology; resident profiles, sample contracts, and research interests in vascular surgery; and operative experiences and the program director's contact and message for thoracic surgery. Interventional radiology deficits were work hours, and thoracic surgery deficits were procedural experience. Both interventional radiology and thoracic surgery websites lacked information on evaluation criteria and faculty mentorship.

CONCLUSIONS

This study has uncovered key differences in the availability of online content for residencies recruiting from the same pool of applicants. Thoracic surgery has the most information, followed by vascular surgery, with interventional radiology reporting the least content. In the era of virtual interviewing from the same potential pool of applicants, programs should review and revise their web presence with the aim to increase the availability of online content to attract valuable candidates.

COVID-19 and its effect on Instagram adoption by #OBGYN residency programs

OBJECTIVES

Instagram (IG) is becoming one of the larger resource tools within medicine. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is becoming important for programs to improve virtual presence and outreach. We evaluated the adoption of IG by OB/GYN residency programs in the United States and aimed to see if highly ranked programs had higher utilization rates.

METHODS

IG presence and engagement metrics were extracted for all ACGME accredited OB/GYN programs. Doximity residency navigator tool was used to obtain nationwide program rankings, and statistical analysis was performed to prove any significant correlation. Mann-Whitney U test, Cochran-Armitage test and Analysis of variance were used for analysis. IRB exemption was obtained.

RESULTS

Seventy percent of programs (202/287) have IG presence, with the majority creating presence after the COVID pandemic began (115/202; 57%). Seventy-two percent (83/115) of these programs created their IG account once virtual interviews were announced. The top 25% of programs, as ranked on Doximity, have a higher number of posts, followers and likes when compared to the rest of the programs.

CONCLUSIONS

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to increased adoption of IG by residency programs. Highly ranked and reputed programs have higher rates of activity, popularity, and engagement on IG.

Analysis of Applicants' Perspectives of Cardiothoracic Surgery Fellowship Program Websites

BACKGROUND

Cardiothoracic (CT) surgery fellowship websites help applicants determine where they apply and/or accept an interview. However, relevant information from programs is not communicated in a standardized way.

METHODS

We used Fellow and Residency Electronic Interactive Database Access (FREIDA) Online to identify residency programs with traditional CT fellowships. Program-specific variables included presence or absence of tracks, track duration, and annual cardiac and thoracic cases. Resident-specific variables included number of resident(s) a program accepts and case numbers per fellow. Current CT residents completed an online survey in which they rated how important they deemed the presence of these variables in program websites.

RESULTS

According to FREIDA Online, 74 traditional CT surgery fellowship websites were analyzed. Among the websites listed on FREIDA, only 16 (22%) linked directly to the CT fellowship page. Surveys were sent to all trainees enrolled in the 74 programs, and 24 responded. There were marked deficiencies in the availability of information on program websites that was highly valued by trainees. Only 31% of websites reported annual program volume, and 14% reported resident case numbers, while this data was highly valued by >60% of respondents. Similarly, 11% of program websites described their education curriculum, while 81% of respondents highly valued this information. One-quarter of respondents were dissatisfied with the overall information provided by program websites.

CONCLUSIONS

CT fellowship program websites lack crucial content that is deemed highly valued by applicants. This study suggests the possible need for a single comprehensive data repository or a standardized method for communicating information through program websites.

Otolaryngology residency program websites in a socially distanced application cycle

OBJECTIVE

To provide an updated evaluation of otolaryngology residency program websites during a socially distanced application cycle. Criteria were selected to evaluate for level of comprehensiveness, new content accommodating a virtual interview cycle, and stated commitment to diversity and inclusion.

STUDY DESIGN

Review of otolaryngology residency program websites.

SETTING

Online websites between December 2020 and January 2021.

METHODS

Otolaryngology residency program websites were evaluated for selected criteria. Programs were categorized by geographic location, size, and Doximity rankings. Differences between groups were analyzed using Student's t-test and analysis of variance with a significance level of P < .05.

RESULTS

118 otolaryngology residency program websites contained a mean (SD) of 16.3 (4.7) of 31 criteria (52.6%). Fewer than one third included virtual/video tours of facilities or the surrounding area. Only 33% had a stated commitment to diversity and inclusion. There was no difference in number of criteria included when categorized by geographic location (P = .22). Larger programs (17.9 vs 14.5, P < .001) and programs ranked in the top 50 by Doximity (17.7 vs 15.2, P = .003) included a significantly greater number of criteria.

CONCLUSION

While the comprehensiveness of otolaryngology residency program websites has improved, considerable room for improvement remains. Programs should strive to maintain updated websites that highlight training opportunities, program culture, and commitment to diversity and inclusion. Programs also should consider prioritizing the development of new online resources that may be especially useful to applicants during a virtual interview cycle.

Integration of Web Analytics Into Graduate Medical Education: Usability Study

Background

Web analytics is the measurement, collection, analysis, and reporting of website and web application usage data. While common in the e-commerce arena, web analytics is underutilized in graduate medical education (GME).

Objective

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Department of Surgery website was revamped with input from in-house surgeons in August 2017. This study investigated the use of web analytics to gauge the impact of our department’s website redesign project.

Methods

Google Analytics software was used to measure website performance before and after implementation of the new website. Eight-month matched periods were compared. Factors tracked included total users, new users, total sessions, sessions per user, pages per session, average session duration, total page views, and bounce rate (the percentage of visitors who visit a site and then leave [ie, bounce] without continuing to another page on the same site).

Results

Analysis using a nonpaired Student t test demonstrated a statistically significant increase for total page views (before vs after: 33,065 vs 81,852; P<.001) and decrease for bounce rate (before vs after: 50.70% vs 0.23%; P<.001). Total users, new users, total sessions, sessions per user, and pages per session showed improvement. The average session duration was unchanged. Subgroup analysis showed that after the main page, the next 3 most frequently visited pages were related to GME programs in our department.

Conclusions

Web analytics is a practical measure of a website’s efficacy. Our data suggest that a modern website significantly improves user engagement. An up-to-date website is essential for contemporary GME recruitment, will likely enhance engagement of residency applicants with GME programs, and warrants further investigation.

Cosmetic dermatologic surgery fellowship websites and social media presence: Opportunities for improved applicant recruitment

INTRODUCTION

The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) established a cosmetic dermatologic surgery fellowship in 2013. Programs often outline details of fellowships on their websites to help prospective applicants make informed decisions. Our primary goal was to evaluate the content quality of online information for all ASDS-accredited cosmetic dermatologic surgery fellowships on program websites and the ASDS website. Our secondary goal was to describe program activity on social media platforms as another avenue for applicant recruitment.

METHODS

Program websites were assessed using an aggregate score from twenty-one standardized content quality variables. Social media activity on Facebook and Instagram from January 6 2021, to March 6, 2021, was categorized.

RESULTS

Among 24 cosmetic dermatologic surgery fellowship programs, 23 had websites. Basic information was provided across most websites or the ASDS website (eg, address, 95.8%), but more qualitative variables like research opportunities or didactic schedule were not consistently reported. Most programs had highly active social media accounts (91.7% on Facebook and 79.2% on Instagram).

CONCLUSION

There is a gap of information availability between the ASDS website and individual cosmetic dermatologic surgery fellowship websites. Increasing information availability may enhance the applicant recruitment process and serve as a low-cost intervention to ensure optimal fit.

Critical Evaluation of the Efficiency of Colorectal Fellowship Websites: Cross-sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Websites are an important source of information for fellowship applicants, as they can influence ongoing interest and potential program selection.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the current state of colorectal fellowship websites.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study evaluates the quantity and quality of information available on websites of colorectal fellowship programs verified by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education in 2019.

RESULTS

A total of 63 colorectal fellowships were included for evaluation. Websites were surveyed for content items that previous studies have found to be influential to program applicants. The 58 (91%) programs with a functional website were evaluated using an information index (calculated as a function of availability of content items concerning education, application, personnel, and benefits) and an interactive index (calculated as a function of accessibility and usability of the webpage). Programs had a median total score of 27.8 (IQR 21.5-34.5) of 79. The median score for the interactive index was 7.5 of 15 and for the information index was 20 of 64. The median scores for website application, education, personnel, and benefits or life considerations were 5, 5.5, 3.3, and 4 of 13, 24, 13, and 14, respectively. There was no difference in total score between programs in different geographical regions (P=.46).

CONCLUSIONS

Currently, colorectal surgery fellowship program websites do not provide enough content for applicants to make informed decisions. All training programs, regardless of specialty, should evaluate and improve their digital footprint to ensure their websites are accessible and provide the information desired by applicants.

Global Pandemic and Plastic Surgery Residency Match: Can Social Media Fill the Void?

Background

The type of content that influences plastic and reconstructive surgery (PRS) residency program selection and attracts applicants is everchanging and not clearly understood. Further, the COVID-19 pandemic had a major impact on residency selection that is undetermined.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to determine to what degree and the type of PRS SM content that drives prospective applicants’ interest of a residency program, especially in the context of COVID-19.

Methods

Prospective PRS residency applicants were surveyed anonymously.

Results

An average of 60% of respondents reported that PRS social media (SM) content influenced their perception of a program. Fifty-eight percent reported that resident lifestyle content made them gain interest in a program. Separately, 32% reported that resident lifestyle content influenced them to rank a program higher. Seventy-two percent of respondents claimed SM content did not make them lose interest in a program. Rarely posting, outdated content, and lack of engagement were cited as factors for loss of interest in a program. A majority of respondents (53%) reported wanting to see more resident life and culture content on SM. Of the existing PRS SM content, respondents were most interested in resident lifestyle, followed by clinical and program-specific content.

Conclusions

The COVID-19 pandemic amplified the importance of SM PRS residency selection. Resident lifestyle content was consistently indicated as more likely to make respondents gain interest in a program, rank a program higher, and as the most desired content. PRS programs will benefit from highlighting resident camaraderie, quality of life, hobbies, and lifestyle to attract applicants.

Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship Program Website Content and Accessibility

OBJECTIVE

When child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship applicants are applying to programs, many will use fellowship websites to gather information. This study assesses the accessibility and content available on child and adolescent fellowship websites.

METHODS

Using the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) list of child and adolescent fellowship programs for 2020, 139 child and adolescent fellowship training websites were compiled. Information on websites was evaluated within the following three categories: program overview, application information and recruitment, and educational opportunities. A total of 22 criteria were evaluated within these three categories. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the websites.

RESULTS

A list provided by ERAS and a Google search identified child and adolescent fellowship program websites. Analysis of content revealed most websites included an overview of the program (97.8%), but fewer included information such as the number of fellowship spots (51.5%), salary (45.5%), application deadline (41.0%), and call responsibility (19.4%).

CONCLUSION

Results suggest there is room for improvement in the comprehensiveness and accessibility of child and adolescent fellowship websites. Especially during a time when much of the programmatic information will be obtained virtually due to COVID-19, it is critical that fellowship websites are uniformly curated so applicants can more easily find information about programs.

Evaluation of Adult Neurology Residency Program Websites

OBJECTIVE

Neurology residency program websites often serve as the initial face of a program for prospective residents early in the application process. We evaluated adult neurology residency program websites to determine their comprehensiveness to identify areas for improvement.

METHODS

A list of adult neurology residency programs in the United States was compiled using information on the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and Fellowship and Residency Electronic Interactive Database (FREIDA) websites. A total of 24 website criteria covering educational, recruitment, and compensation content were assessed for comprehensiveness. Programs' website comprehensiveness was compared based on geographic location, program affiliation (community and/or academic), program size, and program/hospital Doximity and U.S. News & World Report rankings.

RESULTS

A total of 153 US adult neurology residency program websites were evaluated. Fewer than one-half of program websites were accessible with a direct link from either FREIDA or ERAS. The number of residency program websites reporting each content criterion varied greatly. Mean percentage of overall website comprehensiveness among neurology residency programs was 65.9%. Northeast location, academic affiliation, larger programs, and top-ranked programs on Doximity were associated with greater program website comprehensiveness.

INTERPRETATION

There is opportunity for all neurology residency programs to improve their websites to provide prospective applicants with a more informed and comprehensive perspective of programs during the application process. ANN NEUROL 2021;89:637-642.

Showcasing Your Cardiothoracic Training Program in the Virtual Era

As part of the response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, cardiothoracic training programs quickly transitioned midinterview season toward a virtual format. This monumental and rapid undertaking led to the adoption of novel virtual interviewing techniques, many of which have been developed and partially rolled out by other specialties for years. The COVID-19 pandemic is still here, and when the end will be in sight is unclear. However, most, if not all, of the novel interview techniques that were rapidly adopted by cardiothoracic training programs during the 2020 interview season will continue to be relevant even after the pandemic and need for social distancing subsides. In this literature review, we highlight techniques that can be used by cardiothoracic training programs to virtually showcase their attributes and strengths to give applicants as realistic of a view of the program as possible. Such efforts include developing and emphasizing a social media presence, expanding information within training program websites, broadcasting virtual educational content, and creating virtual tours. In addition, we will review approaches toward structuring a virtual interview day to provide candidates with a deeper glimpse into the inner workings of the program. We can use this opportunity provided by the COVID-19 pandemic to develop innovative methods of conducting fellowship interviews that may persist long into the future, as we consider limitations historically caused by finances, scheduling, clinical responsibilities, and family needs.

Social media impact in the Match: A survey of current trends in the United States

BACKGROUND

Applicants to integrated plastic and reconstructive surgery (PRS) residency in the United States spend exorbitant amounts of time and money throughout the interview process. Outside of first-hand experience through a visiting rotation, applicants utilize various resources in learning about a program. Today's applicants are "Millennials," the demographic cohort raised during the information age and proficient with digital technology. The authors evaluated whether programs have a presence on social media, and whether applicants are following these accounts.

METHODS

An online survey was sent to applicants to a single integrated plastic surgery program evaluating basic demographics, social media utilization, and sources of information accessed throughout the residency application process. A manual search of popular social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter) was performed in October 2019. Accounts affiliated with integrated PRS programs were identified and analyzed.

RESULTS

Eighty-four of 222 applicants (37.8%) completed the survey. Ninety-six percent of applicants were within the Millennial demographic. Ninety-six percent of applicants had some form of social media presence, with Facebook (90%) and Instagram (87%) being the most popular platforms. Seventy-three percent of applicants reported following a PRS residency social media account. As of October 2019, 59 integrated residency programs (73%) have active Instagram accounts.

CONCLUSIONS

Applicants still rely on the program website when researching potential residencies, but social media is being rapidly adopted by programs. Program social media accounts should be used as a dynamic form of communication to better inform applicants of program strengths and weaknesses.

Increasing Fellow Recruitment: How Can Fellowship Program Websites Be Optimized?

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to determine the importance of factors considered by orthopaedic trauma fellowship applicants when evaluating programs. We hypothesized that applicants will prioritize consistent factors when applying to programs. In addition, we assessed how the applicants use the Internet to research potential fellowships. Our goal is to provide fellowships with information to optimize both their fellowship and online contents.

METHODS

At the 2018 and 2019 Orthopaedic Trauma Association meetings, a paper survey was given to each attendee of multiple fellowships' informational sessions. The survey consisted of 25 factors that applicants may consider when evaluating fellowships ranked on a 1-to-5 Likert scale. Additional questions were asked to determine how applicants use the Internet and social media when researching fellowships.

RESULTS

We received 111 surveys (roughly a 56% response rate). Ninety-eight applicants (88%) indicated that they use fellowship websites to research fellowships. The utilization of fellowship websites was markedly greater than the use of other online resources. The highest rated factors surveyed were surgical experience (mean 4.95; SD 0.26), pelvic and acetabular experience (4.80; 0.52), lower extremity fracture experience (4.75; 0.58), and current faculty at the fellowship (4.55; 0.78). The lowest rated factors were the ability to moonlight (2.04; 1.08), salary (1.88; 1.12), and spine trauma experience (1.45; 0.87). Surgical experience and pelvic/acetabular experience were rated markedly higher than every other factor surveyed.

DISCUSSION

To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate that most orthopaedic trauma fellowship applicants use fellowship websites when researching programs. Programs may use this study to optimize their fellowship experience to reflect what the applicants value. In addition, programs may use this study as a guide when updating their websites. Fellowships with informative websites that meaningfully highlight their fellowship experience may have a competitive edge in attracting applicants to their programs.

Evaluation of plastic surgery resident aesthetic clinic websites

Background

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the website pages of integrated plastic and reconstructive surgery resident aesthetic clinics in the United States.

Methods

Website pages dedicated to resident aesthetic clinics in all integrated plastic and reconstructive surgery residency programs (n = 79) were accessed between October and November 2019 and evaluated across several criteria, including: number of pages, procedures offered, faculty participation, respective prices, patient photographs, patient testimonials, contact information, and specific recruitment incentives.

Results

Seventy-nine integrated and 54 independent residency programs were identified, 31 of which had both an integrated and an independent residency program for a total of 102 distinct programs. Out of these, only 11 programs (10.8%) had a webpage dedicated to their resident aesthetic clinic (Figure 1). Twelve other programs (13.7%) that did not have a dedicated webpage mentioned a resident aesthetic clinic elsewhere on their residency program website. For each of the eleven programs with space for the resident aesthetic clinic, there was exactly one dedicated webpage. None of the programs with dedicated webpages included photographs of before and after cases, nor procedures performed, nor a listing of resident aesthetic clinic prices. Three of the dedicated webpages included information about faculty participation. Out of the 24 ASAPS endorsed aesthetic fellowship programs, 6 (25%) had a webpage dedicated to the fellow aesthetic clinic. Four of these webpages were comprised of a single webpage, while one program had 6 webpages and one program had 8 webpages. Only one program's webpage included before and after pictures. Four programs (16.7%) included information about faculty participation on the webpage. Five out of the 6 programs had a procedure list on the webpage.

Discussion

Resident aesthetic clinic websites are an important tool in recruiting patients as well as medical students. Addressing the lack and quality of such websites may improve recruitment of patients and students to plastic and reconstructive surgery residency programs. As a primary source of information for potential future residents and patients, plastic and reconstructive surgery programs need to maximize the content and utility of their websites.

Microsurgery Fellowship Website and Social Media Presence: Are Programs Optimizing Recruitment Strategy?

BACKGROUND

 Microsurgery fellowship applicants make decisions for future training based on information obtained from colleagues, mentors, and microsurgery fellowship program Websites (MFWs). In this study, we sought to evaluate the accessibility and quality of available information by microsurgery programs by analyzing the most commonly used web resources and social media outlets for applicants.

METHODS

 The San Francisco (SF) Match and American Society of Reconstructive Microsurgery Websites were queried in April 2020 for microsurgery fellowship programs (MFPs) participating in the SF Match. Twenty-two independent variables of information were assessed on MFWs based on previously published data. Social media presence was also assessed by querying Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for official hospital, plastic surgery residency, and microsurgery fellowship accounts.

RESULTS

 All 24 MFWs participating in the SF Match had a webpage. Program description, faculty listing, operative volume, and eligibility requirements were listed for all programs (100%). The majority of MFWs listed affiliated hospitals (75%), provided a link to the fellowship application (66.7%), listed interview dates (66.7%), and highlighted research interests (50%). A minority of MFWs provided information on conference schedule (37.5%), current fellow listing (25%), previous fellow listing (16.67%), and positions held by previous fellows (8.33%). No MFWs (0%) presented information on selection process, or rotation schedule.All hospitals with an MFP had a Facebook page and nearly all had Instagram (83.3%) and Twitter accounts (95.8%). Plastic surgery residency programs at the same institution of an MFP had social media presence on Facebook (38.9%), Twitter (38.9%), and Instagram (66.7%). Only three MFPs had Facebook accounts (12.5%) and none had Instagram or Twitter accounts.

CONCLUSION

 As the field of microsurgery continues to grow, the need for effective recruitment and training of microsurgeons continues to be essential. Overall, we conclude that both the accessibility and quality of information available to applicants are limited, which is a missed opportunity for recruitment.

This Surgical Life - An Exploration of Surgical Department Podcasting

OBJECTIVE

Surgical departments are increasingly utilizing media to disseminate knowledge, discuss ideas, and mentor future surgeons. Podcasts are a form of media where digitally recorded content can be downloaded or streamed. This study aims (1) to describe the audience reached by a single surgical department podcast and (2) to evaluate what sources of information surgery residency applicants use to formulate a rank list.

DESIGN

In Fall 2017, the Rocky Mountain Surgery Podcast (RMSP) was created, produced, and edited by 2 general surgery (GS) residents at a large academic training program. Each episode discussed a topic within GS training and/or educational experiences specific to the program. Interviewing GS applicants for the 2019 match were asked to complete an anonymous voluntary survey on their familiarity and opinion of RMSP and the role of podcasts in the application process.

RESULTS

Twenty-two episodes were completed over a 16-month period (October 4, 2017 - February 11, 2019). A total of 7002 individual listens occurred in 644 cities across 46 states. Ninety-eight interviewing applicants responded to the survey (99% response rate), and one-fourth had previously listened to the RMSP. Only half felt that the traditional interview experience provided enough information about a GS program, and a significant majority (97%) stated they would listen to one or more podcast episodes to gain information regarding a GS residency program.

CONCLUSIONS

Applicants to GS residency commonly feel inadequate information is gained during the interview process. Podcasts are a tool familiar to applicants that allow for exploration of topics which cannot be adequately addressed in a typical interview day, thus expanding an applicant's knowledge of a GS training program.

Current Status of Instagram Utilization by Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Residency Programs: A Comparison With Related Dental and Surgical Specialties

PURPOSE

The utility of social media in oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMS) residency programs has never been investigated, despite the increasing popularity of such platforms in academic medicine. As a specialty that strives for constant innovation, it is important for OMS programs to participate in the emerging concept of incorporating social media into medical and surgical education. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the use of Instagram in OMS residency programs in the United States.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study of Instagram search data was performed. The Instagram accounts of OMS residency programs were searched, and their metrics were retrieved from June 1 to June 5, 2020. Factors correlated with the total number of followers were identified. The use of Instagram in OMS residency programs was compared with that in other related dental and surgical residency programs.

RESULTS

Only 17 (18.7%) of 91 OMS residency programs had an Instagram account. The number of programs with Instagram accounts exhibited linear growth (R² = 0.98) since December 2018. The median number of followers was 326 (range, 94 to 2,152), and the median number of posts was 9 (range, 2 to 40). The number of Instagram followers was positively correlated with the number of accounts followed, the number of total posts, and the number of educational posts, and it was negatively correlated with the Instagram engagement rate. Instagram presence did not differ among residency programs for orthodontics (18.2%), periodontics (5.5%), and OMS (P = .067). However, Instagram presence in OMS residency programs was significantly lower than that in plastic surgery (74.7%; P < .001) and otolaryngology residency programs (35.0%; P = .011).

CONCLUSIONS

Instagram use in OMS residency programs is growing but is significantly lower than that in related surgical fields. This may represent a missed opportunity for promoting collaboration and efficiently delivering useful information to trainees.

Factors associated with academic rank among chronic pain medicine faculty in the USA

Background

Numerous factors are considered in the academic promotion of pain medicine physicians. In this study, we investigated the importance of research productivity, career duration, leadership, and gender on attaining professorship in chronic pain medicine fellowship programs in the USA.

Methods

We identified 98 pain fellowship programs in the American Medical Association Fellowship and Residency Electronic Interactive Database. Faculty demographics and institutional characteristics were obtained from institutional websites, and h-index (number of publications (h) cited at least h times) and m-index (h-index divided by research career duration) were calculated from Scopus. A nested mixed effect hierarchical modeling was used to determine factors that were associated with attaining professorship.

Results

A total of 696 chronic pain medicine faculty members from 98 academic pain fellowship programs were identified, of whom 74.7% were males. For the 15.5% who were full professors, the median h-index was 16.5 (6.0 to 30.0), the median career duration was 20.5 (16.0 to 27.0) years, and the median m-index was 0.7 (0.3 to 1.3). In an adjusted analysis, the top quartile (compared with bottom) h-index (OR 6.27; 95% CI: 2.11 to 18.59), publication citations (OR 1.13; 95% CI: 1.10 to 1.21), division chief position (OR 3.72; 95% CI: 1.62 to 8.50), institutions located in the western region (OR 3.81; 95% CI: 1.52 to 9.57), and graduating from a foreign medical school (OR 1.98; 95% CI: 1.10 to 3.92) were independently associated with attaining professorship (p<0.05), but gender was not (p=0.71).

Conclusions

Our study shows that, higher h-index, publication citations, division chief position, affiliation at a lower tier medical school, and location in the Western region were independently associated with full professorship, whereas gender was not. The identified variables for professorship may be considered as factors in faculty promotions.

Impact of COVID-19 on Away Rotations in Surgical Fields

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented a variety of challenges in the medical education curriculum, one of which is the possible loss of summer and fall away rotations for fourth year students applying into surgical subspecialties. Subsequently, a lack of in-person evaluations may have a major impact on an applicant's perception of the residency and the program's ability to assess the individual applicant. This is especially crucial for applicants without a home program in their specialty of interest, as away rotations are an important opportunity to confirm interest in pursuit of a subspecialty, obtain letters of recommendation, and make positive impressions at programs of interest. The objective of this article is to assess the current COVID-19 pandemic situation in light of away rotations and to provide recommendations for surgical subspecialty programs and applicants to have the best outcome during this upcoming application cycle. In particular, we emphasize the importance of implementing universal processes within each individual subspecialty. This will provide equitable opportunities for all applicants, minimizing potential biases or disadvantages based on geographic location or availability of a program at an applicant's home institution.

Factors in Residency Decision Making for Female Neurosurgery Applicants

BACKGROUND

Neurosurgery remains a specialty with one of the largest gender gaps in the United States. Neurosurgery residency programs are highly motivated to attract the best female candidates in an effort to improve their program diversity, but no studies currently exist that examine the factors of highest importance to female applicants for neurosurgery residency selection. The purpose of this study was to determine factors that female neurosurgery residents used when selecting their residency.

METHODS

A 2-part survey was sent to female neurosurgical residents by e-mails collected from the American Association of Neurological Surgeons directory and residency program websites. The survey asked participants to score 17 characteristics of residency programs in terms of importance and then asked them to rank their top 5 most influential factors when selecting a neurosurgery residency.

RESULTS

The most important factors included variety/number of cases, camaraderie and happiness of current residents, early surgical/clinical experience, and academic reputation. The least important factors included gender diversity of faculty and residents, number of female residents, number of female faculty, and attitudes toward maternity leave.

CONCLUSIONS

Efforts to increase female applicants in neurosurgery residency programs should focus on highlighting some more universal, non-gender-related factors, such as happiness and camaraderie among residents and anticipated clinical experiences, as opposed to showcasing features that would seemingly appeal to female applicants, such as maternity leave and number of current female faculty or residents.

Utilizing Analytics to Identify Trends in Residency Program Website Visits

Introduction

Most medical residency training programs maintain websites to provide content for audiences including current residents, prospective residents, and medical students. This study seeks to characterize when and how a residency program website is being accessed in order to identify the primary audiences to provide appropriate and timely content.

Methods

The authors examined website analytics at a large urban Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME)-accredited post-graduate year (PGY)1-PGY4 emergency medicine residency training program website. Analytics were performed from July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2018 with daily traffic cataloged along with referral sources, page views, and device type used to access the website. The top five dates by daily traffic were further analyzed with daily traffic trends during the residency interview season.

Results

There was an average of 45.8 unique visitors daily with 261.5 daily page views. Computer (67.2%), mobile device (29.6%), and tablet (3.1%) were the most common devices used for viewing. The most popular content areas by page-view were “people” (68,987 visits), “home” (38,569), “clinical curriculum” (35,556), and “medical students” (14,461). The five most-visited dates were all related to application processes including the opening of the Visiting Student Application Service (VSAS), the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), and Match Day. During the interview season, peak visits occurred the dates immediately preceding interview dates.

Conclusion

Residency program websites appear to be accessed most commonly by medical students and prospective residency applicants. Website managers should take the needs of these audiences into account and provide appropriate content to maximally inform prospective residency program candidates.

Do Websites Provide What Applicants Need? Plastic Surgery Residency Program Websites Versus Applicant Self-reported Needs

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Background:

Plastic surgery residency program websites (PSRWs) remain a major resource for applicants to one of the most competitive specialties in medicine, yet it is unclear how the website content aligns with information applicants need.

Objective:

To evaluate PSRWs and whether they are meeting applicant needs.

Methods:

An anonymous online survey of 2016 plastic and reconstructive surgery applicants evaluated the use of PSRWs and information desired. Two researchers then independently analyzed all 93 PSRWs in the United States to determine whether the websites met the needs of applicants based on a quantitative scoring system.

Results:

Out of 369 total applicants to plastic surgery, the survey was sent to the 189 applicants to University of Southern California, and 87 responded (46% response rate). Ninety-eight percentage of respondents used websites during the application process. For 31%, websites served as the only source of information. Websites were moderately (60%) and only slightly useful (32%). For 22% and 34%, the quality of a website influenced their decision to apply or interview, respectively. Out of the 22 common components between the applicant survey and scoring assessment of websites, there was a significant difference in 17 components (77%) between those rated as “important” by applicants and availability of the corresponding component on websites (P < 0.05). Average (SD) score among websites was 18.7 (5.3) out of 49 maximum points (36.9%). Over 30% of websites displayed broken links or missing or outdated information. Only 19.6% displayed a link to provide website feedback.

Conclusions:

PSRWs commonly include pertinent information that is useful; however, most are lacking components valued by applicants. These findings can help guide the design, content, and improvement of PSRWs to be quality resources for applicants.

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Program Websites Under-Report Content Related to Resident Recruitment and Education

PURPOSE

Prospective applicants use residency program websites (PWs) to evaluate programs when deciding where to apply, interview, and rank. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the content of oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMS) PWs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study of all OMS programs accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. PWs were identified through the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons Program Directory (AAOMS-PD) and a secondary internet search. The predictor variables were program characteristics (federal service, medical school curriculum, program size, and viability of AAOMS-PD link). The outcome variables were 22 content items related to resident recruitment and resident education and 4 content items related to medical school commitment. Content was recorded as present or absent without judgment on the quality or accuracy. Descriptive statistics were calculated for all outcome variables, and Student t tests were used to compare program characteristics with the amount of content reported.

RESULTS

Ninety-six of 101 programs had dedicated PWs. On average, programs included 39% (range, 0 to 77%) of the recruitment and education items assessed. Most programs did not address crucial aspects of training, such as faculty research interests (22%), resident selection criteria (22%), alumni rosters (19%), surgical case load (13%), and dedicated scholarly time (8.8%). Less than half the 6-year programs discussed a tuition responsibility (44%) or tuition assistance (21%). Four-year programs provided significantly less recruitment content (P < .01) and 4-year (P < .01) and federal (P < .01) programs reported significantly less resident education content.

CONCLUSIONS

As a whole, OMS PWs are under-reporting content related to resident recruitment and resident education. Program directors should update their PWs to provide adequate information for prospective applicants.

Evaluation of the Content and Accessibility of Web Sites for Accredited Orthopaedic Trauma Surgery Fellowships

BACKGROUND

Orthopaedic trauma fellowship applicants use online-based resources when researching information on potential U.S. fellowship programs. The 2 primary sources for identifying programs are the Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA) database and the San Francisco Match (SF Match) database. Previous studies in other orthopaedic subspecialty areas have demonstrated considerable discrepancies among fellowship programs. The purpose of this study was to analyze content and availability of information on orthopaedic trauma surgery fellowship web sites.

METHODS

The online databases of the OTA and SF Match were reviewed to determine the availability of embedded program links or external links for the included programs. Thereafter, a Google search was performed for each program individually by typing the program's name, followed by the term "orthopaedic trauma fellowship." All identified fellowship web sites were analyzed for accessibility and content. Web sites were evaluated for comprehensiveness in mentioning key components of the orthopaedic trauma surgery curriculum. By consensus, we refined the final list of variables utilizing the methodology of previous studies on the topic.

RESULTS

We identified 54 OTA-accredited fellowship programs, offering 87 positions. The majority (94%) of programs had web sites accessible through a Google search. Of the 51 web sites found, all (100%) described their program. Most commonly, hospital affiliation (88%), operative experiences (76%), and rotation overview (65%) were listed, and, least commonly, interview dates (6%), selection criteria (16%), on-call requirements (20%), and fellow evaluation criteria (20%) were listed. Programs with ≥2 fellows provided more information with regard to education content (p = 0.0001) and recruitment content (p = 0.013). Programs with Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) accreditation status also provided greater information with regard to education content (odds ratio, 4.0; p = 0.0001). Otherwise, no differences were seen by region, residency affiliation, medical school affiliation, or hospital affiliation.

CONCLUSIONS

The SF Match and OTA databases provide few direct links to fellowship web sites. Individual program web sites do not effectively and completely convey information about the programs. The Internet is an underused resource for fellow recruitment. The lack of information on these sites allows for future opportunity to optimize this resource.