The impact of institutional NIH funding on allopathic medical student exposure to plastic and reconstructive surgery

Plastic and reconstructive surgery (PRS) is highly competitive, and medical students benefit from early access to research, mentorship, and clinical exposure. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is the largest source of biomedical funding in the U.S., yet its relationship to PRS resource availability across allopathic medical schools is poorly understood. This study examined whether NIH funding correlates with stronger PRS opportunities for students. A cross-sectional review of 150 U.S. allopathic medical schools was performed by assessing each school's website for PRS resources, including residency programs, student interest groups (SIGs), mentorship, advising, shadowing, and research opportunities. Schools were categorized by AAMC region, and a total resource score was generated. NIH funding data were obtained from the Blue Ridge Institute for Medical Research; schools without available data (n=10) were excluded. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS v31. Across all schools, 58% had PRS residencies, 54% offered research opportunities, 48% had SIGs, and fewer than one-third offered formal mentorship or advising. Total PRS resources were strongly correlated with NIH funding (Spearman's Correlation Coefficient ρ=0.584; p<0.001). Highly funded schools had significantly greater odds of offering PRS residencies, research opportunities, mentorship, advising, and elective rotations (all p<0.001). PRS resources vary widely across U.S. medical schools and are strongly linked to NIH funding. Amid tightening federal support, programs, particularly at lower NIH-funded schools, should explore diversification toward non-government partnerships (foundations, philanthropy, industry, and alumni) to sustain equitable PRS exposure for students.