Mental Health and Wellness Among Plastic Surgeons During Oral Board Certification Examination Preparation

The field of plastic and reconstructive surgery has recently made a dramatic shift toward attention to mental health, with residency curricula expanding to include training on burnout prevention and the promotion of well-being. After graduation, however, new surgeons face a difficult year of preparation for the oral board certification examination. This group of young surgeons remains largely unstudied and undersupported throughout what may be the most challenging period of their educational journey.

In spring of 2024, an electronic survey was sent to members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons who had completed their oral board examination within the past 3 years. Demographics, study habits, utilization of preparatory courses, and aspects of mental and physical health during the examination year were explored, and factors impacting well-being were identified.

Thirty-two respondents were included in the analysis, 85.7% of whom reported passing the examination on their first attempt. Most began in-earnest studying 1-3 months before the examination, with the majority studying 11-15 hours/week. The majority utilized study groups and preparatory courses. Half of the respondents reported that the examination was a financial burden. Anxiety and depression related to the examination were reported by 81.5% and 25.9% of respondents, respectively. Seeking medical attention and self-medicating was reported by 18.52% of respondents.

Many examinees experience mental health concerns during the preparation period for the oral board examination. Nevertheless, measures to support well-being may exist and should be offered both during and after the examination preparation period.