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Attrition in otolaryngology residency
Jeremy D Prager1, Charles M Myer, Charles M Myer
1University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, Colorado, USA.
Summary
Otolaryngology residency programs experience resident attrition, with a 6% overall rate over five years. This rate is lower than general surgery and comparable to other surgical specialties.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Otolaryngology Training
- Residency Programs
Background:
- Resident attrition is a significant issue in medical training programs.
- Limited data exists on attrition specifically within otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat) residency.
- Understanding attrition rates is crucial for program improvement and resident retention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the attrition rate among otolaryngology residents over a five-year period.
- To identify the reasons for attrition within this specialty.
- To compare otolaryngology attrition rates with other surgical fields.
Main Methods:
- A web-based survey was distributed to otolaryngology residency program directors.
- Data was collected on residents from a five-year cohort.
- Response rate from programs and training positions was analyzed.
Main Results:
- The survey achieved a 61% response rate from 59 programs, covering 63% of training positions (779 residents).
- Overall attrition was 6% (47 of 779 residents) over five years, averaging 1.2% annually.
- Reasons for attrition included voluntary departure to other programs (18 residents), leaving medicine (4 residents), and involuntary attrition (6 residents).
Conclusions:
- Attrition in otolaryngology residency is less frequent than in general surgery.
- The attrition rate in otolaryngology appears comparable to other surgical subspecialties.
- Further investigation into the career paths of all departed residents is warranted.
