Comparing Virtual vs In-Person Immersive Leadership Training for Physicians.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Leadership Development
• Physician Training

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional in-person workforce development programs.
• Physician leadership training programs shifted from in-person to virtual formats and back.
• This study compares participant experiences in virtual versus in-person physician leadership training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare participant experience, knowledge acquisition, and ability gains between virtual and in-person physician leadership training.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of different delivery formats for an immersive physician-oriented leadership institute.
• To understand adaptations and participant feedback for virtual and in-person leadership training.

Main Methods:

• Comparison of virtual (n=32) and in-person (n=39) OB-GYN physician cohorts.
• Data collection via post-session surveys including quantitative (knowledge/ability gains) and qualitative (open-ended feedback) measures.
• Analysis of participant ratings and feedback on curriculum delivery in different formats.

Main Results:

• Both virtual and in-person formats showed significant knowledge and ability gains, with some learning outcomes higher in the virtual setting.
• Qualitative feedback highlighted effective engagement and connection in both formats, with virtual participants noting program design effectiveness.
• Challenges in virtual training included time constraints and technical issues, while a preference for in-person interaction was noted.

Conclusions:

• Immersive physician leadership training is effective in both virtual and in-person formats, enhancing knowledge and skills.
• These programs foster valuable interpersonal connections crucial for physician leadership.
• Despite the effectiveness of virtual delivery, participants expressed a clear preference for in-person leadership development experiences.