No difference in subsequent trainee satisfaction associated with in-person exposure prior to remote interviews

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Graduate Medical Education
• Trainee Well-being

Background:

• The shift to virtual interviews for residency and fellowship in 2020-2021 raised concerns about trainee adjustment.
• Specifically, there were worries that trainees without prior exposure to the institution's location might have lower satisfaction with their new work environment and community.

Purpose of the Study:

• This study aimed to compare the satisfaction levels and likelihood to recommend among new trainees.
• The comparison focused on trainees with and without previous exposure to a specific academic medical center and its surrounding community.

Main Methods:

• An Institutional Review Board (IRB)-approved, cross-sectional electronic survey was administered to new trainees.
• The survey collected data on demographics, prior area exposure, satisfaction with the program and community, and likelihood to recommend.
• Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were used for data analysis.

Main Results:

• Surveys were sent to 173 trainees, yielding 87 responses in September 2021 and 31 in May 2022.
• A higher percentage of trainees in the September group (55.6%) reported prior exposure compared to the May group (38.7%).
• The majority of trainees expressed satisfaction with their workplace (Penn State Health) and community, and would recommend both, with no significant differences observed between those with or without prior exposure.

Conclusions:

• Prior in-person exposure to the institution or surrounding area did not significantly influence trainee satisfaction.
• Satisfaction with both the training program and the community was comparable for trainees regardless of their previous familiarity with the location.