Mapping the Mentorship Landscape in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Training Programs: A Cross-Canadian Survey

This study aims to explore the current landscape of mentorship within Canadian Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (OHNS) programs by investigating the experiences and perspectives of OHNS trainees and program directors (PDs).

A cross-sectional survey study.

Anonymized online questionnaires were sent to all residents and PDs of the 13 accredited OHNS residency programs across Canada. The questionnaires collected qualitative and quantitative information about the type of mentorship (formal vs informal) programs implemented, as well as individuals' experiences and opinions on mentorship.

Of residents, 57.1% (92/161) completed the survey, whereas 84.6% (11/13) of PDs completed the survey. Of residents, 45.7% (42/92) participated in formal mentorship programs and 72.8% (67/92) participated in informal mentorship programs. The PDs perceived the importance of formal mentorship at 3.0/5. Residents reported greater satisfaction with informal mentorship relationships compared to formal mentorship (4.4/5 vs 3.7/5, P < .01) due to a more organic initiation of relationship and a better personality match. The main areas for improvement of current mentorship programs included the availability of mentors, networking opportunities, and protected time for encounters.

Surgical residents found informal mentorship to be more beneficial than formal mentorship. However, residency programs should provide more guidance and structure to optimize hybrid mentorship opportunities and mentor selection/availability. Mentorship training or development resources for attending physicians and feedback opportunities are essential for efficient relationships.