Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 21, 2026
09:41
A Pipeline for 3D Multimodality Image Integration and Computer-assisted Planning in Epilepsy Surgery
Published on: May 20, 2016
Use of computerized interview scheduling program for pediatric surgery match applicants
Caroline Q Stephens1, Nicholas A Hamilton1, Ann E Thompson1
1Oregon Health & Science University, Department of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, Doernbecher Children's Hospital, Portland, OR, USA.
Journal of Pediatric Surgery
|March 30, 2017
Summary
A computerized-scheduling program (CSP) significantly reduced pediatric surgery fellowship interview scheduling time and emails. Most applicants reported high satisfaction and efficiency gains, supporting wider adoption for improved process management.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Surgical Training
- Healthcare Administration
Background:
- Pediatric surgery fellowship programs involve extensive interview coordination, with applicants and programs managing over 20 interviews annually.
- Traditional communication methods like email and phone are time-consuming for both applicants and interviewers.
- The need for a more efficient system to manage the high volume of pediatric surgery fellowship interviews is evident.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a computerized-scheduling program (CSP) in streamlining the pediatric surgery fellowship interview process.
- To compare the efficiency of CSP-based scheduling with traditional email and phone methods.
- To assess applicant satisfaction and perceived benefits of using a CSP for interview scheduling.
Main Methods:
- A computerized-scheduling program (CSP) was implemented to schedule pediatric surgery fellowship interviews in 2016.
- Scheduling time and the volume of email communications per applicant were compared between 2016 (CSP) and 2015 (traditional methods).
- A survey was administered to 2016 interviewees to gather feedback on their experience with the CSP compared to traditional scheduling.
Main Results:
- Mean scheduling time decreased significantly from 14.4 hours to 1.7 hours (p<0.001), and mean emails per applicant dropped from 3.4 to 1.0 (p<0.0001).
- Applicant survey results indicated 92% satisfaction with the CSP, with 87% finding scheduling easier and 96% reporting quicker finalization of dates.
- Significant improvements were noted in access to interview slots (71%) and coordination of logistics (63%), with 84% supporting widespread CSP adoption.
Conclusions:
- The implementation of a computerized-scheduling program (CSP) substantially enhanced the efficiency and applicant experience in pediatric surgery fellowship interviews.
- The CSP led to significant reductions in time and communication overhead for both applicants and the program.
- Widespread adoption of CSPs holds the potential to greatly improve the overall efficiency of fellowship interview scheduling across medical specialties.
