Conceptual Framework for a Plastic Surgery Residency Leadership Curriculum

Leadership development remains an overlooked component in the plastic surgery residency curriculum. Through a mixed-methods assessment of physician perceptions, this study aims to establish the value and structure of a formal leadership course for trainees.

Qualitative interviews were conducted with plastic surgery residents to identify common themes concerning the current state of leadership training and goals for improvement. These themes then guided the design of a quantitative assessment, which surveyed faculty and residents regarding their perceived need for a curriculum, the domains that should be included, and the format of delivery.

Six residents underwent interviews, which yielded the following themes: (1) surgical residents require a distinct set of leadership skills that warrants more intensive training and (2) leadership training should assume a more structured format. The survey achieved a 76% (29/38) response rate, with residents comprising 55% of respondents. Participants were neutral to slightly satisfied with current resident leadership and "learning on the job" (4.62 and 4.03 on a 7-point Likert scale, respectively). Respondents reported a moderate need for formal leadership training (2.97 on a 5-point scale). Availability was ranked as the greatest barrier to curriculum implementation. Topics considered most important included effective communication, self-awareness/emotional intelligence, and strategic thinking. Formats considered most effective included in-person lectures, small group exercises, and case studies.

This study presents a conceptual framework for the implementation of a leadership curriculum for plastic surgery residents that may empower the development of stronger physician leaders.