APDS Task Force on Resident Transfers: Guidelines for Program Directors

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Residency Programs

Background:

• Resident attrition from General Surgery programs is well-studied.
• Transfers between General Surgery programs, however, lack established protocols.
• Program directors face challenges managing unexpected resident departures and subsequent recruitment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the perspectives of General Surgery Program Directors on resident transfers.
• To establish guidelines for a transparent and equitable resident transfer process.
• To address issues of process, timing, and potential retribution during resident transfers.

Main Methods:

• A 19-question nationwide survey was distributed to General Surgery Program Directors.
• The survey collected data on acceptable transfer reasons, process timelines, and transparency.
• Data from 99 respondents were analyzed to identify consensus guidelines.

Main Results:

• A majority of Program Directors agreed on key transfer guidelines.
• Guidelines emphasize transparency, opposition to retaliation, and mutual agreement on transfer dates.
• Personal or family preference was deemed the most acceptable reason for transfer.

Conclusions:

• Clear policies and transparent processes are crucial for managing resident transfers.
• Establishing agreed-upon timelines and discouraging retaliation can facilitate smoother transitions.
• The Association of Program Directors in Surgery (APDS) supports the implementation of these guidelines.