Utility of Virtual Program Information Sessions to Inform Medical Students About Radiation Oncology Residency...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Radiation Oncology
• Virtual Learning

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated the adoption of virtual program information sessions (VPIS) in Radiation Oncology (RO) for medical students (MS).
• Assessing the utility and future of VPIS in RO residency recruitment is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the perceived usefulness of VPIS among MS and residency program members (RPMs).
• To determine the desire for the continuation of VPIS in RO.

Main Methods:

• An anonymous survey with 5-point Likert scales and descriptive feedback was administered to MS and RPMs.
• Surveys were distributed between September and December 2023 to MS and RPMs involved in RO VPIS during the 2022-2023 CaRMS cycle.
• Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Main Results:

• 100% of MS and RPMs found VPIS useful and supported their continuation.
• RPMs rated usefulness (4.82 vs. 4.5, p=0.045) and continuation (5.00 vs. 4.67, p=0.008) more strongly than MS.
• Key benefits identified by MS included cost-free access (100%) and broader program exposure (94%).

Conclusions:

• VPIS in Radiation Oncology are effective and beneficial for both medical students and residency programs.
• The study supports the continuation and optimization of VPIS, with suggestions for time zone considerations and enhanced resident interaction.
• This analysis provides evidence for integrating VPIS into future residency recruitment strategies.