Implementation, Feasibility, and Perception of Facilitated Process Groups in Surgical Residency

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Psychological Wellbeing

Background:

• Surgeon burnout, particularly among trainees, is a significant concern.
• Limited research exists on specific wellbeing initiatives within surgical residency programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and resident perception of facilitated process groups as a wellbeing initiative in a general surgery residency program.

Main Methods:

• A psychologist led weekly facilitated process groups for general surgery residents (PGY1-5).
• Surveys (pre and post-implementation) collected demographic data, burnout inventory scores, and perceptions of the program.
• Attendance and qualitative feedback were also recorded.

Main Results:

• Process groups were feasible to implement, with high attendance rates (97% attended ≥1 session).
• Resident perception of the groups was consistently positive across surveys.
• No significant changes in burnout scores were observed, but qualitative feedback was largely positive.

Conclusions:

• Facilitated process groups are a feasible wellbeing intervention for surgical residents.
• The program demonstrated positive resident perception, suggesting potential benefits for trainee mental health.