Experiences of OBGYN Administrative Chief Residents

As residency programs' administrative needs have become more complex, the burden on Administrative Chiefs (ACs) has grown. While many residency programs' AC positions are filled by physicians who have completed residency, some specialties such as OBGYN fill the role with senior residents. To our knowledge, there is no literature examining perspectives on a post-residency AC position versus an AC role filled by a senior resident. Additionally, there is limited data around the responsibilities of OBGYN ACs despite the important role they serve in residency programs.

We sought to characterize the experiences of OBGYN ACs, and solicit the perspectives of ACs and Program Directors (PDs) on an alternative structure of the AC role.

We created voluntary, anonymous, nation-wide survey of ACs and PDs from 2022 to 2023.

From 279 programs, we received 94 responses from PDs (34% response rate) and 93 from ACs. The majority of ACs' time was spent on scheduling. Finding coverage for unexpected absences was the most stressful aspect. While 53% of ACs reported the role had a negative impact on their well-being, 67% reported an overall positive experience. Most ACs and PDs expressed interest in an alternative structure for ACs, specifically a year-long role after completion of residency that combined independent clinical practice with administrative duties.

There is a high administrative burden placed on OBGYN ACs, causing stress and negatively impacting well-being. There is interest amongst ACs and PDs in changing the AC role such that it no longer falls on a current resident.