Comparison between Medical Student Educators and Program Directors in 2010 and 2019.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Ophthalmology Leadership
• Academic Medicine Demographics

Background:

• The Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology (AUPO) has seen increased prominence of Directors of Medical Student Education in Ophthalmology (DMSEs).
• Understanding demographic trends and leadership pathways for DMSEs compared to Ophthalmology Program Directors (PDs) is crucial for academic ophthalmology.
• The potential for academic promotion from these distinct leadership tracks warrants examination.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine demographic differences between DMSEs and PDs in academic ophthalmology between 2010 and 2019.
• To analyze trends in the number, sex distribution, and geographic representation of DMSEs and PDs.
• To compare the academic promotion trajectories of DMSEs and PDs, specifically their progression to Chair positions.

Main Methods:

• A database study utilizing the AUPO directory from 2010 to 2019.
• Demographic profiles of DMSEs and PDs were compiled using publicly available resources.
• Chi-square analysis was performed to assess demographic trends and differences.

Main Results:

• The number of DMSEs steadily increased from 2010 to 2019, while the number of PDs remained stable.
• The proportion of women among DMSEs increased significantly by 2019 compared to 2010; the proportion of female PDs remained stable.
• Ophthalmology residency graduation years were similar for both groups, but PDs were more likely to become Chairs by 2019 than DMSEs.

Conclusions:

• There is a notable growth in the DMSE cohort, accompanied by an increasing representation of women.
• The number of PDs and the proportion of women in PD roles have remained consistent.
• DMSEs appear less likely to ascend to Chair positions compared to PDs, suggesting different leadership progression pathways within academic ophthalmology.