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Resident and faculty perceptions of a surgical residency program merger
J Mellinger1, B Bonnell, W Passinault
1Grand Rapids/Michigan State University General Surgery Residency Program, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
Current Surgery
|March 29, 2001
Summary
Residency mergers can enhance academic training but may negatively impact program morale and relationships. Faculty and residents perceived academic benefits, but faculty noted significant declines in program atmosphere and morale post-merger.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Surgical Residency Programs
- Healthcare Administration
Background:
- Residency mergers are increasingly common in medical education.
- Evaluating the impact of these mergers on resident and faculty perceptions is crucial.
- Understanding differing perspectives can inform future merger strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess resident and faculty perceptions of a general surgical residency merger.
- To identify specific areas of perceived benefit and detriment.
- To compare resident and faculty viewpoints on the merger's impact.
Main Methods:
- A survey was administered to faculty and residents of a merged general surgical residency.
- Nineteen program characteristics were scored numerically, with qualitative commentary solicited.
- Statistical analysis used the Mann-Whitney U test to compare resident and faculty responses.
Main Results:
- Overall perceptions of academic issues were neutral to positive for both groups.
- Mergers negatively impacted program atmosphere and morale, particularly for faculty.
- Residents perceived greater benefits in teaching conference timing and practice preparation compared to faculty.
Conclusions:
- Residency mergers can strengthen academic and clinical foundations.
- Potential drawbacks include negative impacts on morale and interpersonal relationships.
- Addressing these relational aspects is key for successful merger integration.