Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) fellowship website content: are applicants receiving enough information?

Area of Science:

• Surgical Education
• Medical Fellowships
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Advanced GI/Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) fellowships represent a significant non-ACGME post-residency training pathway.
• MIS fellowship positions are highly competitive, with a 32% match failure rate in 2021.
• Evaluating the information provided on MIS fellowship websites is crucial for prospective applicants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the adequacy of information provided on Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) fellowship program websites for general surgery residents.
• To identify key areas where MIS fellowship websites may be lacking in essential details for applicants.

Main Methods:

• A review of 92 Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) fellowship program websites was conducted.
• Websites were evaluated based on 12 pre-identified variables derived from existing literature.

Main Results:

• While most websites provided contact information (90%) and selection criteria (72%), other details were limited.
• Information on interview specifics (25%), current/past fellows (34%), and faculty directories (51%) was sparse.
• Operative details like case volume (46%) and rotation locations (23%) were infrequently mentioned, as was fellow wellness and career development information (16-30%).

Conclusions:

• MIS fellowship websites provide some essential information but lack critical details regarding career development, faculty support, and operative experience.
• Improving website content can better align with accreditation standards and applicant needs.
• Enhanced website transparency can aid general surgery residents in making informed fellowship decisions.