Patient Understanding and Perception of Urology Resident Training, Role, and Capabilities

We sought to identify patient understanding of urology residents and comfort with being cared for by residents. Through this pilot study, we aim to propose educational objectives to improve this knowledge gap and ultimately allow for an improved patient experience.

A prospective survey was distributed from September 2022 to October 2022. A patient knowledge about residents (KAR) score was calculated by combining correct responses to 5 questions (maximum = 5). Another score evaluating patient opinion of residents was calculated using Likert scale questions (range 3-19; higher scores correlate with positive opinion) denoting patient outlook on residents.

A total of 88 surveys were completed. The average ± SD patient age was 62.7 ± 15.2 years. Patients previously seen by a resident had significantly higher KAR scores (3.591 ± 1.210) compared to patients never interacting with a resident or unsure (KAR = 2.381 ± 1.324; P < .0001). Additionally, those with higher levels of education had greater KAR scores (graduate-level KAR = 3.792 ± 1.179; P = .002). No variables were found to have a statistically significant impact on patients' average opinion of residents.

Current patient understanding of the role of a urology resident is suboptimal. Given this knowledge gap, we hope to propose educational approaches to help aid in patient understanding of resident physicians, who play a critical role in their clinical care.