Nationwide Resident Access to Elective Rotations: A Survey Study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Plastic Surgery

Background:

• Plastic and reconstructive surgery programs aim to train competent surgeons.
• Standardized training exists, but opportunities to experience the specialty's breadth vary.
• Elective rotations can supplement training and address gaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the availability of elective rotations in plastic and reconstructive surgery residency programs.
• To understand resident and alumni experiences with electives.
• To identify barriers hindering the offering of electives.

Main Methods:

• A multi-institutional survey study was conducted.
• Two surveys were distributed: one to program leadership and one to residents, fellows, and recent alumni.
• Responses were collected from 45 programs and 102 individuals.

Main Results:

• Fifty-six percent of surveyed institutions offer elective rotations, primarily in the final years of training.
• Common elective types include aesthetic, craniofacial, hand, and microsurgery.
• Barriers such as cost, institutional policy, and service coverage impact elective availability, though 71% of programs without electives wish to offer them.

Conclusions:

• Elective rotations are valuable for comprehensive plastic and reconstructive surgery training.
• Addressing identified barriers could increase elective rotation availability.
• Expanding elective opportunities enhances resident exposure to diverse surgical areas.