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The Perception and Costs of the Interview Process for Plastic Surgery Residency Programs: Can the Process Be
Srinivas M Susarla1,2, Edward W Swanson1,2, Sheri Slezak1,2
1Seattle, Wash., and Baltimore, Md.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|September 16, 2016
Summary
The plastic surgery residency interview process is costly for both applicants and programs. Many applicants spend over $5000 and miss work, suggesting potential improvements like optional in-person elements.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Surgical Training
- Residency Admissions
Background:
- The plastic surgery residency interview process involves significant resource allocation.
- Applicant experiences and financial burdens are key considerations in admissions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate applicant perceptions and financial costs of the plastic surgery residency interview process.
- To compare these factors between integrated and independent residency tracks.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey was administered to plastic surgery residency applicants.
- Data on costs and perceptions of interview components were collected via a web-based survey.
- Descriptive and bivariate statistics were used for analysis.
Main Results:
- The program incurred $2763 per interviewed applicant; 63% of applicants spent over $5000.
- Over 70% of applicants missed more than 7 days of work for interviews.
- Independent track applicants valued in-person elements less than integrated track applicants.
Conclusions:
- The residency interview process is resource-intensive for programs and applicants.
- Eliminating informational talks and making in-person components optional may enhance the process.
- Virtual interview experiences were viewed more positively by those with prior exposure.
