Evolving Perceptions of the Plastic Surgery Integrated Residency Training Program.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Plastic Surgery

Background:

• A notable shift is occurring in plastic surgery residency training nationwide.
• Many programs are transitioning from independent to integrated training models.
• This evolution raises questions about the efficacy of integrated residency programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess plastic surgery residency program directors' and faculty members' perspectives on integrated training.
• To evaluate the perceived impact of the transition to integrated programs on resident training.
• To understand the driving factors and barriers influencing program transitions.

Main Methods:

• An anonymous 13-question electronic survey was developed and distributed.
• The survey targeted 92 program directors identified through the American Council of Academic Surgeons.
• Responses were analyzed using SurveyMonkey and Microsoft Excel.

Main Results:

• A 40.2% response rate was achieved from program directors, with additional faculty responses.
• The majority of institutions utilize integrated residency programs, with some using both integrated and independent models.
• Most respondents support the transition, citing perceived superiority of integrated programs, though funding remains a barrier.

Conclusions:

• The integrated plastic surgery residency model is expanding.
• While most respondents believe in the integrated program's superiority, a significant portion remains undecided.
• Further research is necessary to definitively establish the superiority of integrated over independent residency training.