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An analysis of attrition from Canadian neurosurgery residency programs
M D Cusimano1, A M Yonke, W S Tucker
1Division of Neurosurgery, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, ON, Canada.
Academic Medicine : Journal of the Association of American Medical Colleges
|September 25, 1999
Summary
Neurosurgery resident attrition in Canada is significant, with voluntary withdrawals often due to workload and lifestyle demands. Dismissals typically stem from professionalism issues, not skill deficits.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Surgical Training
- Residency Programs
Background:
- Neurosurgical residency programs face challenges with resident attrition.
- Understanding attrition drivers is crucial for program improvement and resident well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the extent of attrition in Canadian neurosurgery residency programs.
- To identify the primary reasons behind resident withdrawals and dismissals.
Main Methods:
- Surveys sent to directors of 13 Canadian neurosurgery programs.
- Questionnaires administered to 30 program graduates.
- Interviews conducted with six residents who voluntarily withdrew.
Main Results:
- Forty-two residents voluntarily withdrew between 1980-1992, with increasing rates.
- Voluntary withdrawals linked to excessive workloads and lifestyle demands.
- Dismissals primarily due to deficits in professional attitudes, ethics, and interpersonal skills.
Conclusions:
- Voluntary attrition in neurosurgery residency is substantial and tied to lifestyle control.
- Dismissals are rarely due to technical skill deficits but rather professionalism concerns.
- Further cross-specialty and international research is warranted.