Conceptual Framework for a Plastic Surgery Residency Leadership Curriculum

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Leadership Studies

Background:

• Leadership development is often overlooked in plastic surgery residency curricula.
• There is a need to formally assess the value and optimal structure for leadership training in this field.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish the perceived value of a formal leadership course for plastic surgery trainees.
• To determine the ideal structure and content for such a curriculum.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach was employed, starting with qualitative interviews of residents.
• Themes from interviews informed a quantitative survey of residents and faculty on curriculum needs and preferences.
• Response rate for the survey was 76%.

Main Results:

• Interviews revealed a need for more intensive and structured leadership training.
• Residents and faculty showed moderate perceived need for formal leadership training.
• Key desired topics include communication, self-awareness, and strategic thinking; effective formats include lectures and case studies.

Conclusions:

• A conceptual framework for a plastic surgery resident leadership curriculum is presented.
• Implementation of this curriculum may enhance the development of physician leaders in plastic surgery.