What About the Coach? Mixed-Methods Study Assessing the Experience of Coaches in a Peer Surgical Coaching Program

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Professional Development

Background:

• Peer coaching is increasingly used to enhance surgeon performance.
• The benefits for surgeons acting as coaches are not well understood.
• This study investigates the impact of peer surgical coaching on coaches themselves.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the impact and benefits of peer surgical coaching from the perspective of surgeons acting as coaches.
• To identify the key experiences and challenges faced by surgeon coaches.

Main Methods:

• A concurrent mixed methods study design was employed.
• 24 surgeons who served as coaches in the Surgical Coaching for Operative Performance Enhancement (SCOPE) program participated.
• Data were collected via anonymous e-surveys and semi-structured interviews.

Main Results:

• 78.9% of coaches reported significant changes in their practice due to participation.
• Coaches perceived equal benefits for themselves and coachees.
• Key themes included affective attitude, individual benefits, comparison to CME, impact on surgical culture, and logistical challenges.

Conclusions:

• Peer surgical coaching is perceived as professionally fulfilling and clinically impactful by coaches.
• Programs should foster professional development for both coaches and coachees.
• Adapting programs is crucial to maximize surgeon engagement in coaching roles.