The Impact of Social Media on Plastic Surgery Residency Applicants

The Use of Social Media in Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery Education: A Cross-Sectional Survey of German-Speaking Residents and Medical Students

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Social media has become a significant part of daily life, with platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp dominating usage. The COVID-19 pandemic further increased social media activity, including within the orthopedic community due to restrictions on physical gatherings. Despite the benefits of instant access to educational resources and interaction with experts, the lack of regulated editorial oversight on social media raises concerns about misinformation and privacy. This study aimed to evaluate the role of social media in orthopedic and trauma surgery education, focusing on platform use, user behavior, and engagement with educational content.

METHODS

A web-based survey was distributed to 912 residents and 728 medical students from the German-speaking Association for Arthroscopy and Joint Surgery (AGA) between June and July 2022. The questionnaire included 21 items covering demographics, platform use, activity patterns, engagement with educational content, and concerns about privacy.

RESULTS

Of the 339 respondents (129 medical students), 87% reported daily social media use, primarily via smartphones (93%). The most commonly used platforms were WhatsApp (84%), Instagram (68%), and YouTube (54%). About 26% of the content consumed was related to orthopedics or trauma surgery. While 70% engaged with specialist content by liking, commenting, or sharing, only 32% posted their own content. Additionally, 77% followed healthcare professionals or institutions, and 65% benefited from case presentations with images. Notably, 15% observed content that could violate patient privacy.

CONCLUSIONS

Orthopedic residents and students are high-volume social media users but engage more passively with professional content. While most value educational material, concerns about privacy violations and inappropriate posts remain prevalent.

Paucity of Online Information About Gender-Affirming Surgery Fellowships in the United States

BACKGROUND

Despite growing demand for gender-affirming surgery (GAS), there are few formal GAS fellowships in the United States. Paucity of online information about GAS fellowships may discourage potential applicants and decrease the visibility of the field. Thus, it is important to analyze the existing online information about GAS fellowships to improve fellow recruitment and patient outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To identify the number of GAS fellowship websites (GASFWs) and evaluate their robustness. Second, to report the social media presence of GAS fellowships.

METHODS

To identify GASFWs, existing databases sponsored by plastic surgery associations and Google query were used between April and May 2023. Thirty-five independent variables based on previously published data were evaluated for presence in a bivariate fashion on GASFWs. Accounts on popular social media websites were also identified by Google query. Website and social media analysis were also done for GAS fellowships that were offered by departments/specialties other than plastic surgery.

RESULTS

In total, only 6 GASFWs associated with plastic surgery departments were identified and analyzed. Eight nonplastic surgery GASFWs were included for analysis. Overall, both categories of GASFWs were not robust; key information such as previous fellow listing and selection criteria was often missing. Furthermore, important topics specifically related to GAS such as community engagement and programmatic building are often not found on GASFWs either. In addition, none of the fellowships had any independent Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

CONCLUSIONS

To ensure patient safety and quality outcomes, it is important to promote GAS by recruiting more applicants for specialized training beyond residency. With increased Internet use, improving GASFWs and social media presence as well as considering the use of a centralized database or match system can foster the growth of the field.

Is #Gender Affirmation Surgery Trending? An Analysis of Plastic Surgery Residency Social Media Content

Purpose

Given rising demand for gender affirmation surgery (GAS), lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and others' (LGBTQ+) patient care, and sexual and gender minority (SGM) representation in plastic surgery, we sought to analyze integrated residency programs' posts for LGBTQ+ content.

Methods

Programs were identified from the American Council of Academic Plastic Surgeons website. Accounts were searched for on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Posts uploaded through June 24, 2021 were analyzed. Mann-Whitney U- and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to compare content between programs.

Results

Of 82 programs, 76 (92.7%), 31 (37.8%), and 30 (36.6%) have Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter accounts, respectively. Two hundred eighty-one (1.3%) posts displayed LGBTQ+ content, including educational (29.9%), research (17.4%), news (11.0%), resident interests (10.7%), pride/diversity (9.6%), posts to attract applicants/patients (7.5%), operative/clinic cases (6.8%), faculty spotlights (6.4%), and patient testimonials (1.1%). One hundred eighty-one (64.4%) posts described GAS overall, 42 (23.2%) described top, 32 (17.7%) described genital, and 32 (17.7%) described facial surgery. Instagram and Facebook have more LGBTQ+ content than Twitter (p≤0.037). Newly accredited programs have significantly more LGBTQ+ content on Facebook (p=0.036). Programs in the West, having more perceived prestige, or GAS fellowships tended to have more LGBTQ+ content.

Conclusion

Despite growing demand for GAS and thus training, 1% of content on plastic surgery residency social media accounts is LGBTQ+ related. Reasons for lack of representation require further investigation but may include (1) limited GAS and LGBTQ+ patient exposure during training or (2) lack of SGM inclusivity for residents, faculty, and patients.

Lymphedema Surgical Education and Faculty Demographics in United States Plastic Surgery Residency Programs

BACKGROUND

 Recent advancements in supermicrosurgery and promising preliminary outcomes have led to a surge in physiologic lymphedema surgery. This study is the first to evaluate lymphedema surgical education among U.S. plastic surgery residency programs, along with the background and experience of plastic surgeons subspecializing in the field.

METHODS

 Cross-sectional evaluation of 103 accredited U.S. plastic surgery residency programs was performed in January 2023. Web-based searches of program curricula, faculty profiles, and main institutional pages indicated whether a program provided nonclinical or clinical exposure to lymphedema surgery. Review of online faculty profiles, surname searches, Doximity, and Scopus determined the perceived demographics, academic productivity, and procedures performed by lymphedema surgeons.

RESULTS

 Compared with the 11 programs that incorporated lymphedema surgery into their online curriculum, 67 programs had a rotation site with a surgeon performing lymphedema procedures. Of the 33 programs without evidence of clinical exposure, 76% (n = 25) did not provide or specify providing elective time. Faculty perceived to be female or a race underrepresented in plastic surgery had significantly more assistant professor titles (p < 0.0214) and significantly fewer years of experience (p < 0.0293) than their counterparts.

CONCLUSION

 Great variation in lymphedema surgical education exists among U.S. plastic surgery residency programs. While few programs incorporate lymphedema surgery into their advertised curriculum, programs without clinical exposure frequently did not provide elective time to obtain it. Faculty that were female or a race underrepresented in plastic surgery were most often early in their career, suggesting lymphedema surgeons may grow increasingly diverse in years to come.

Social media trends in obstetrics and gynecology residency programs on Instagram and X (Twitter)

BACKGROUND

During the COVID pandemic, residency program's social media presence increased to aid in residency recruitment by attempting to increase engagement and readily available information for applicants across specialties. However, little information exists on what characteristics and content on obstetrics and gynecology (OBGYN) residency program accounts attract more followers or engagement.

OBJECTIVES

To identify social media trends in OBGYN residencies and determine which aspects of programs influence the number of followers and interaction with content posted.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of ACGME accredited OBGYN programs and determined their presence on Instagram and X in the fall of 2021. Content from the thirty programs with the most followers was analyzed independently by two authors. Multivariate analysis and a linear mixed model were used to characterize and evaluate content on Instagram and X.

RESULTS

Most programs utilized Instagram (88.5%, N = 262/296) and were managed solely by residents (84.4%, N = 108/128). Number of followers on Instagram positively correlated with features such as program size, Instagram profile duration, and Doximity rankings (p < 0.0x01). Programs on X had more followers if their profile had a longer duration, followed more individuals, or were ranked higher on Doximity. The most posted Instagram content was biographical and social in nature. Instagram posts with the highest engagement were awards and/or the Match.

CONCLUSIONS

Understanding what social media content attracts more followers and increases engagement is crucial as it likely impacts OBGYN resident recruitment. Professional groups should establish guidelines for social media use in recruitment for the protection of both residents and applicants.

Evaluating Diversity Promotion on Integrated Plastic Surgery Residency Program Websites and Instagram Accounts

BACKGROUND

Medical students applying to residency, including those from underrepresented groups, strongly value cultural fit and program diversity. Program websites and social media are thus an influential information source for prospective applicants and recruitment tool for residencies. We evaluated whether and how integrated plastic surgery residency program websites and social media display commitments to diversity online.

METHODS

We evaluated program websites for 8 predetermined diversity elements, (1) nondiscrimination and (2) diversity statements, (3) community resources, (4) faculty and (5) resident biographies, (6) faculty and (7) resident photographs, and (8) resident resources, and assessed Instagram accounts for diversity-related images, captions, and hashtags. Our analysis used Mann-Whitney U , chi-squared, and t tests; significance level was P < 0.05.

RESULTS

We reviewed 82 program websites with a mean of 3.4 ± 1.4 diversity elements. Resident (n = 76, 92.7%) and faculty photographs (n = 65, 79.3%) and resident biographies (n = 43, 52.4%) were the most common. Seventy programs (85.4%) had Instagram accounts, the majority of which (n = 41, 58.6%) shared content related to diversity in race, ethnicity, gender, and/or sexual orientation. Programs located in smaller cities were more likely to have ≥4 website diversity elements ( P = 0.014) and mention diversity on Instagram ( P = 0.0037). Programs with women chairs/chiefs were more likely to mention diversity on Instagram ( P = 0.007).

CONCLUSIONS

In the age of virtual recruitment, program websites and social media should provide sufficient information, described in our diversity element checklist, to help prospective applicants determine fit from a diversity perspective. Residents, who often contribute to program social media, and women chairs/chiefs may be critical to driving diversity promotion.

The Social Media Footprint of Pediatric Surgery Fellowship Programs: Where Do We Stand?

INTRODUCTION

Social media utilization is expanding within graduate medical education and academic surgery. This study aims to quantify the current social media footprint of pediatric surgery (PS) fellowship training programs.

METHODS

United States PS fellowship programs from the American Pediatric Surgical Association website and social media accounts on three platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) were identified. Authors quantified subject matter within public program content and compared PS social media utilization to other surgical training programs. A public Twitter survey was disseminated to evaluate recent PS applicant Twitter use and perceptions about content posted by programs.

RESULTS

Of 51 PS fellowship programs, 23 (45.1%) had active Twitter accounts, 2 (3.9%) had active Facebook accounts, and 1 (2.0%) had an active Instagram account. Cumulatively, 5162 organic posts were published across all 26 accounts (90.4% on Twitter). Most commonly posted content included research/conference presentations (31.3%) and faculty accolades (15.1%), while clinical/OR experience (3.6%), gender/ethnic diversity (2.4%) had the least content. Compared to other training programs, PS has lower utilization of Facebook (p < 0.001) and Instagram (p < 0.001), but similar Twitter utilization (p = 0.09). Twenty-four recent applicants responded to the public Twitter survey. Most (62.5%) used Twitter intentionally for recruitment and networking purposes when applying to fellowship. They expressed desire for increased content related to clinical/OR experiences, program ethnic/gender diversity and recruitment information.

CONCLUSION

Amongst PS training programs, Twitter is the most commonly utilized platform. Expanding Twitter usage to more programs and posting more varied content may facilitate opportunities for diverse applicant recruitment and serve as a platform to share clinical knowledge, which will ultimately move the needle towards growth and equity.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Having Social Media among Integrated Plastic Surgery Applicants: Is It Needed to Match?

Background

Little information exists on the perceptions of integrated plastic and reconstructive surgery (PRS) residency applicants on the need for having social media (SoMe) during the application process.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey study was conducted during the 2022 match cycle to assess integrated PRS residency applicants' perceptions on the role of SoMe during the match. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed on variables of interest. Qualitative analysis was conducted on free-form responses.

Results

Seventy-nine surveys were completed (response rate: 24%). The majority of respondents were educated in the United States (92%). Instagram was the most commonly used SoMe platform (92%). Of those surveyed, 18% thought that SoMe was beneficial to the application process. Twenty-nine percent of respondents agreed that a SoMe presence increases one's chances of matching into PRS residency (41% disagreed and 30% responded neutrally). Forty-four percent endorsed stress about maintaining a SoMe presence in PRS. Having mentors who recommended maintaining a SoMe presence was associated with the belief that SoMe increases one's chances of matching [odds ratio (OR) 8.1, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.1-40.4, P = 0.011] and stress about maintaining a SoMe presence (OR 6.3, 95% CI 1.2-33.3, P = 0.030). Applicants who did research years had lower odds of experiencing stress (OR 0.16, 95% CI 0.04-0.70, P = 0.015).

Conclusions

The growing role of SoMe in the residency selection process may be exacerbating applicants' stress and anxiety. PRS programs may consider establishing clear policies for how SoMe will be used in evaluating candidates.

Perception and Usage of Social Media Among Women in Orthopaedics

INTRODUCTION

The use of social media for marketing, education, and networking has increased among orthopaedic surgeons. Social media has played an important role in supporting women physicians and trainees, by allowing connections to be made across stages of training and geographic borders. The purpose of this study was to determine the perceptions of female orthopaedic surgeons, fellows, residents, and medical students regarding their usage of social media.

METHODS

A 22-question anonymous survey regarding the perceptions of social media usage was distributed to 1,189 female members of Ruth Jackson Orthopaedic Society via e-mail in July 2022. Data collection lasted a total of 4 weeks, from July to August 2022. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

A total of 207 responses were received (17% response rate). The respondents comprised 90 orthopaedic surgeons (43%), 60 medical students (29%), 49 residents (24%), and eight fellows (4%). Ninety one percent of participants (189 of 207) reported having a social media account, with 23% (43 of 189) having separate 'personal' and 'professional' accounts. Less than half of all participants reported altering (51 of 189; 27%) or deleting (20 of 189; 11%) profiles for interviews. Fifty three percent of participants (109 of 207) 'agreed' that social media is a good way to network. Twenty eight percent of participants (58 of 207) feared gaining attention to their profile when engaging with professional accounts. Forty percent of participants (62 of 207) agreed that personal life events on social media can be considered unprofessional and should be kept on a private profile.

CONCLUSION

Social media can be used to network professionally within orthopaedic surgery, connecting women at different levels of training. Although concerns about professionalism of social media accounts exist, this may be mitigated by maintaining a separate private account from a public, professional profile. Future guidelines regarding social media usage and how to maintain professionalism while being active on social media may be beneficial.

Social Media Popularity and Academic Productivity in Academic Plastic Surgery: A Positive Correlation

BACKGROUND

Social media is a powerful tool that has empowered plastic surgeons to easily collaborate with one another and rapidly publicize research progression. The present study investigates the relationship between academic productivity and social media presence among both integrated and independent plastic surgery programs and their faculty.

METHODS

Plastic surgery programs on the American Council of Academic Plastic Surgeons website were included. Faculty were identified via review of each program's website. Following metrics of academic productivity were collected for each faculty member: h-index, i10-index, number of publications, and number of citations. Online review was then conducted to identify faculty and program Instagram and Twitter accounts, and the number of associated followers and posts.

RESULTS

Integrated plastic surgery programs were more likely to have an Instagram account (p < 0.001), have higher average faculty h-index (p = 0.027), i10-index (p = 0.027), and number of publications (p = 0.042). A number of Instagram followers were significantly associated with average faculty h-index (p < 0.001), i10-index (p < 0.001), and number of publications (p < 0.001). The number of posts on a program's Instagram significantly predicted average faculty h-index (p < 0.001), i10-index (p < 0.001), and number of publications (p < 0.001). Twitter followers were significantly associated with average faculty h-index (p = 0.0397), i10-index (p = 0.0432), and number of citations (p = 0.00737).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study reveals a correlation between metrics of social media popularity and academic productivity of plastic surgeons. We propose that Instagram and Twitter are effective tools with which plastic surgeons may not only publicize their clinical practice, but also rapidly disseminate important innovations among the medical community. Integrated plastic surgery programs and their faculty have significantly higher utilization of social media platforms. The number of followers and posts on a program's Instagram have a significantly positive correlation with average faculty's academic productivity. Social media platforms may empower academic plastic surgeons to disseminate their innovations on a larger scale.

NO LEVEL ASSIGNED

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each submission to which Evidence-Based Medicine rankings are applicable. This excludes Review Articles, Book Reviews, and manuscripts that concern Basic Science, Animal Studies, Cadaver Studies, and Experimental Studies. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Do Integrated Plastic Surgery Residency Program Websites and Instagram Accounts Address Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion?

BACKGROUND

An authentic, programmatic commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in plastic surgery is necessary to attract and retain a diverse workforce. Plastic surgery residency program websites and social media accounts are important sources of information about program values and culture for applicants, especially with the shift to virtual recruitment. Therefore, the authors sought to evaluate whether integrated plastic surgery residency programs address DEI through content on their websites and Instagram accounts.

METHODS

Integrated plastic surgery residency programs were identified through the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education in December of 2021. The authors searched program websites and Instagram accounts for elements of DEI. The authors evaluated the impact of region, program director sex, and program director race on prevalence of DEI elements on websites using chi-square tests.

RESULTS

A total of 82 integrated plastic surgery residency programs were identified. Overall, 40 (48%) program websites had at least one DEI element, and 10 (12.2%) were found to have three or more DEI elements. The number of DEI elements per program website did not vary by region, program director sex, or program director ethnicity. Among programs with Instagram accounts, 49 (65.3%) posted about women; 30 (40.0%) posted about racial/ethnic minority groups; and 25 (33.3%) posted about lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or other sexual and gender identities.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite widely heralded DEI efforts in plastic surgery residency recruitment, relatively few programs address DEI online. Programs looking to recruit diverse applicants could benefit from increased DEI content on their websites and social media accounts.

Orthopedic Surgery Residencies: The Leap to Social Media

Social media has been previously shown to influence applicants' perception of plastic surgery residencies and increase their likelihood to apply, interview, and rank the program. We wanted to analyze this hypothesized trend in the context of orthopedic surgery residency while also characterizing the content of orthopedic surgery residency program accounts. A current list of US orthopedic residency programs was acquired from the American Orthopaedic Association and cross-referenced with the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education webpage of all orthopedic surgery residencies. Forty-five of 185 (24%) residencies had residency-specific Instagram accounts. We analyzed the number of followers, the number of posts, and the date of the first post for each account. We characterized content by categories including science education, recruitment or hospital promotion, resident highlight, news coverage, events, and community building posts. We analyzed the "social currency" of each post and program, tracking the number of likes, comments, and followers. Twenty-seven of 45 (60%) active residency Instagram pages were created in 2020, with 13 of 45 (29%) pages created in June 2020 alone. Residency programs are increasingly turning to Instagram to showcase the residents at their programs, their lifestyles, and program strengths. Sixty percent of all orthopedic residency Instagram accounts were created in 2020 alone, likely precipitated by travel concerns from COVID-19 forcing programs to conduct online interviews and cancel away rotations this application cycle. Going forward, residency programs will continue using Instagram to recruit potential residents, leaving programs without social media accounts at a relative disadvantage in terms of visibility and their ability to recruit qualified applicants. [Orthopedics. 2023;46(5):e281-e286.].

Social Media Usage by United States Plastic Surgery Subspecialty Fellowship Programs

Social media can be a powerful tool for plastic surgery training programs. Previous studies have shown the value social media may have in integrated residency program recruitment and program reputation. These findings may generalize to fellowship programs, but this space has not been comprehensively studied to date. Therefore, this study aims to characterize plastic surgery fellowship programs' social media usage and identify subsequent opportunities for program leadership to generate engagement.

Methods

United States plastic surgery fellowship programs in four major subspecialties (hand, microsurgery, craniomaxillofacial, and aesthetic) were identified and evaluated for social media presence on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Platform-specific parameters were collected and statistically analyzed in aggregate.

Results

There were a total of 25 Instagram accounts, four Facebook accounts, and three Twitter accounts across all investigated subspecialties. Hand surgery had the greatest social media presence on Instagram (19.5%) and Twitter (3.4%). Microsurgery had the greatest presence on Facebook (4.7%). Between 2015 and 2022, Instagram was the platform with the greatest increase in adoption by fellowship programs. Geographically, microsurgery and craniomaxillofacial accounts were primarily owned by Midwest programs (66.7%, 100%), and aesthetic primarily by programs in the South (83.3%). Number of Instagram posts and followers were not significantly correlated with hospital reputation (P = 0.12, P = 0.63).

Conclusions

Social media is underutilized by plastic surgery fellowship programs. While Instagram metrics such as posts and followers are not correlated with hospital reputation, the skewed distributions of fellowship accounts, both geographically and across platforms, represent areas of potential growth.

The Relationship between Plastic Surgery Residency Instagram Characteristics and Doximity Rank

Social media provides unique insight into the facilities, personnel, and culture of plastic surgery residency programs. Applicants can gain a more holistic view of programs based on their social media accounts. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between the popularity of a program's Instagram account and the program's Doximity ranking and to investigate the factors which contribute to greater viewership, with a special focus on diversity.

Methods

Using Doximity's 2021-2022 Residency Navigator, a list of all integrated plastic surgery residency programs was obtained, and their social media accounts were documented. Instagram accounts were analyzed for metrics, post content, and website links. A 15-month period of posts was analyzed, then grouped into eight categories. Diversity was assessed using average Fitzpatrick skin type for each post containing photographs of people.

Results

Of the 88 programs, 85 (96.6%) had an Instagram account at the time of analysis. Analysis of Instagram post content found that personnel and social function posts had significantly more likes than other categories. Posts with average Fitzpatrick type greater than or equal to III also had significantly more likes. Linear regression demonstrated a positive relationship between higher Doximity rank and number of followers; however, there was no clear relationship between rank and posts per week or engagement score.

Conclusions

Plastic surgery social media accounts may make a positive impact on followers. It is important to understand the factors that can increase engagement and broaden viewership. Tailoring posts based on content popularity and highlighting diversity may help to accomplish these goals.

The Impact of Socioeconomic Factors on the 2022 Plastic Surgery Match

BACKGROUND

In 2022, the plastic and reconstructive surgery (PRS) match faced unprecedented system-wide transitions that have redefined conventional measures of applicant success. This challenges the equitable assessment of student competitiveness and diversity in the field.

METHODS

A survey of demography, application content, and 2022 match outcomes was distributed to applicants to a single PRS residency program. Comparative statistics and regression models were performed to assess the predictive value of factors in match success and quality.

RESULTS

A total of 151 respondents (response rate 49.7%) were analyzed. Although step 1 and step 2 CK scores were significantly higher among matched applicants, neither examination predicted match success. Most respondents (52.3%) were women, although gender was also not significantly associated with match success. Underrepresented in medicine applicants made up 19.2% of responses and 16.7% of matches, and the plurality of respondents (22.5%) were raised with a household income ≥$300,000. Both Black race and household income ≤$100,000 were associated with lower odds of scoring above a 240 on either step 1 or step 2 CK (Black: OR, 0.03 and 0.06; P < 0.05 and P < 0.001; income: OR, 0.07-0.47 and 0.1 to 0.8, among income subgroups), receiving interview offers (OR, -9.4; P < 0.05; OR, -11.0 to -5.4), and matching into PRS (OR, 0.2; P < 0.05; OR, 0.2 to 0.5), compared with White and high-income applicants, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Systemic inequities in the match process disadvantage underrepresented in medicine candidates and those from lower household incomes. As the residency match continues to evolve, programs must understand and mitigate the impacts of bias in various application components.

Mentorship is Critical: An Analysis of the 2022 Plastic Surgery Match

BACKGROUND

As the second cycle impacted by COVID-19, the 2022 Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (PRS) Match maintained virtual interviews while offering a modest lift of subinternship restrictions. The residency application process continues to evolve, with changes such as pass/fail United States Medical Licensing Examination Step 1 reporting prompting programs to reconsider metrics of applicant success. It is critical to address the impact of board scores, mentorship, and resource availability on a diverse applicant population in the PRS Match.

METHODS

A survey was electronically administered to students applying to a single institutional PRS residency program. The survey inquired about demographics, application statistics, mentorship experience, and match outcomes. Logistic regressions were modeled to assess for odds of matching into plastic surgery.

RESULTS

In total, 151 responses were analyzed, a 49.7% response rate. Most participants were female (52.3%), White (68.9%), and not Hispanic/Latino (84.8%). The largest percentage of respondents had a faculty mentor only from their home institution (55.0%) and a resident mentor from only their home institution (32.3%). Participants with a faculty mentor from both a home and outside institution had 7.4 times the odds of matching into PRS (P = 0.02) than students with no faculty mentorship. Students with dual-institution resident mentorship had 18.5 times higher the odds of matching compared with students with no resident mentorship (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Subjective metrics, rather than objective scores, had the most influence on successfully matching into plastic surgery. As the PRS Match continues to become increasingly competitive, it behooves programs to provide equitable access to resources such as mentorship.

The Digital Footprint of Academic Plastic Surgeons

INTRODUCTION

The digital age and global pandemic have transformed the way patients select their plastic surgeon. However, as more patients turn to online resources, there is little information on the digital presence of academic plastic surgeons.

METHODS

We identified all academic faculty from integrated and independent plastic surgery residency programs. Using a Google-based custom search, the top 10 search results for each surgeon were extracted and categorized as surgeon noncontrolled (eg, physician rating websites) or controlled (eg, social media, institutional, and research profiles).

RESULTS

Eight hundred four academic plastic surgeons were included. Most search results were surgeon-noncontrolled sites (57%, n = 4547). Being male (odds ratio [OR], 0.60, P = 0.0020) and holding a higher academic rank (OR = 0.61, P < 0.0001) significantly decreased the prevalence of physician rating websites, whereas career length was significantly associated with a greater number of rating websites (OR = 1.04, P < 0.0001). Surgeon-controlled websites were significantly influenced by academic rank and years in practice; higher academic rank was associated with more social media platforms (OR = 1.42, P = 0.0008), institutional webpages (OR = 1.57, P < 0.0001), and research profiles (OR = 1.62, P = 0.0008). Conversely, longer career duration was a predictor for fewer social media platforms (OR = 0.95, P < 0.0001) and institutional webpages (OR = 0.95, P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Academic plastic surgeons do not hold control of the majority of their search results. However, digitally savvy plastic surgeons can focus attention by building on certain areas to optimize their digital footprint. This study can serve as a guide for academic plastic surgeons wishing to control their online presence.

Social Media Presence Is Associated With Diversity and Application Volume for Orthopedic Surgery Residency Programs

The purpose of this study was to assess the association between social media presence (Twitter and Instagram), diversity in orthopedic surgery residency programs, and the number of applications received by a program. Data from Twitter and Instagram for 179 orthopedic residency programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education were collected, including the presence of a social media account, date of first post, number of posts, and number of followers. Residency program data were collected from the Association of American Medical Colleges Residency Explorer Tool and included percentage of Whiteresidents, percentage of male residents, residency ranking, and number of applications submitted during the 2019 application cycle. Bivariate and multivariable analyses were performed with adjustment for program ranking. Of 179 residency programs, 34.6% (n=62) had Twitter, and 16.7% (n=30) had Instagram. Overall, 39.7% (n=71) had a social media presence, defined as having at least one of the two forms of social media. Programs with social media presences had higher average rankings (48.1 vs 99.6 rank, P<.001). After adjusting for program ranking, social media presence was associated with increased applications during the 2019 application cycle (odds ratio [OR]=2.76, P=.010). Social media presence was associated with increased odds of gender diversity (OR=3.07, P=.047) and racial diversity (OR=2.21, P=.041). Individually, Twitter presence was associated with increased odds of gender (OR=4.81, P=.018) and racial diversity (OR=4.00, P=.021), but Instagram was not (P>.05). Social media presence is associated with more residency program applications and increased resident diversity. Social media can be used to highlight inclusivity measures and related opportunities. [Orthopedics. 2023;46(1):47-53.].

Content and Engagement Among Plastic Surgeons on Instagram

Background

Patients routinely use social media to locate providers, review before-and-after photographs, and discuss experiences, making it a powerful marketing tool for plastic surgeons. A few studies have systematically evaluated plastic surgery app content.

Objectives

This study aims to analyze engagement levels and content posted by top plastic surgeon influencers on Instagram (Menlo Park, CA).

Methods

The authors conducted a cross-sectional study in February 2022 to identify the top 10 global plastic surgeons on Instagram. Influencers were ranked based on the number of followers, and their latest 20 posts were analyzed. A total of 200 posts were categorized by 2 independent trainees as one of the following: marketing, education, personal, and miscellaneous. The number of likes was recorded as a proxy for engagement, and the average engagement for each category was calculated.

Results

The top 10 influencers work primarily in private practice focusing on aesthetic procedures. Out of 200 categorized posts on Instagram, marketing posts had the greatest presence (64.5%), followed by personal (20%), miscellaneous (11%), and educational (4.5%). More still images were posted (56.5%) than videos (43.5%). The highest average engagement was for personal content (P = .005). No significant differences in engagement levels were found between photo and video content (P = .24).

Conclusions

Although most content posted related to marketing efforts, many influencers were also using social media to post about their personal lives and promote their ancillary businesses. Although marketing content was the most common, engagement levels were the highest for personal and educational content, and no significant differences in engagement were found between videos and photos.

General Surgery Residency Applicants' Perspective on Social Media as a Recruiting Tool

OBJECTIVE

General surgery residency programs have increased their social media presence to educate and recruit prospective residents. This study aims to understand the impact of general surgery residency program social media on the 2020-2021 applicants' evaluation of prospective programs, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

DESIGN

An optional 20-item online survey regarding specialty choice, sub-internship rotation completion, social media resource use, social media impact, and general demographic information.

SETTING

Large academic medical center, United States.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 1191 Participants to our general surgery residency program were sent a survey. Six hundred thirteen completed the survey.

RESULTS

Surveys were sent to all general surgery residency applicants of a single program (1,191) and 613 (51.4%) responded. Overall, social media resources use included official residency program website (92.4%), Doximity (36.5%), and Twitter (35.6%). The most frequently relied upon resources by applicants were the official residency program website (64.9%) Twitter (10.9%) and Instagram (10.8%). Most respondents agreed that social media was an effective means to inform applicants (70.9%) and that it positively impacted their perception of the program (62.6%). The most commonly cited benefits were helping the program exhibit its culture and comradery among residents, faculty, and staff (79.2%), with posts of social events and camaraderie as being the most helpful in learning about residency programs. Of all applicants, 71.3% noted that social media had a significant impact on perceptions of programs during the application cycles that were limited by COVID-19 safety and travel restrictions. However, most applicants disagree with (35.3%) or are neutral toward (32.1%) the statement that social media will have less of an impact on future cycles not limited by COVID-19.

CONCLUSION

During the 2020-2021 application cycle, the majority of applicants utilized social media to inform and educate themselves about the general surgery programs they applied to. Residency-based social media had a positive impact on the majority of applicants, especially in terms of allowing a program to demonstrate its culture and camaraderie. Investing time and resources into residency social media accounts appears to be a meaningful pursuit for general surgery programs and is an important aspect in today's recruitment effort.

Impact of Social Media on Applicant Perspectives of Ophthalmology Residency Programs

Purpose This article evaluates the relevance of social media to ophthalmology residency applicants in the setting of virtual interviews, the types of information sought by applicants, and the impact of rebranding of an institutional and departmental social media account.

Design Cross-sectional survey.

Participants Ophthalmology residency applicants from the 2020 to 2021 cycle.

Methods A voluntary survey was emailed to 481 applicants to the University of Louisville Department of Ophthalmology residency during the 2020 to 2021 application cycle to gauge the impact of social media on their perspectives of residency programs, especially with regards to a new departmental social media account.

Main Outcome Measures Applicants' use of social media platforms and specific components of departmental social media accounts found most useful.

Results The 13-question survey was completed by 84/481 applicants (17.5% response rate). Social media was used by 93% of respondents. Of those respondents reporting social media use, the most common platforms utilized included Instagram (85%), Facebook (83%), Twitter (41%), and LinkedIn (29%). Sixty-nine percent of respondents specifically used Instagram to learn more about residency programs. With regards to the rebranded Instagram account at the University of Louisville, 58% of respondents reported being influenced, with all asserting that the account positively encouraged them to apply to the program. The most informative elements of the account related to current resident profiles, resident life, and living in Louisville.

Conclusion A majority of responding ophthalmology residency applicants utilized social media to search for program information. A newly developed social media profile at a single institution positively influenced applicant impressions of the program, with the most importance assigned to information provided about current residents and typical resident life. These findings suggest key areas where programs should continue to dedicate online resources with targeted information to better recruit applicants.

Going virtual: effectiveness of virtual opportunities in engaging applicants for plastic surgery residencies

Purpose

During the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual events led by residency programs have eased deficits formed by the lack of in-person opportunities. Despite their anecdotal success, there is yet a study on their utility and value, as perceived by attendees. Therefore, we sought to investigate engagement rates of virtual opportunity posts via Instagram, equipping residency programs with recommendations for future virtual event planning.

Methods

The 40 PRS residency programs with the highest number of followers on Instagram were inspected for posts regarding virtual opportunities. The virtual opportunities were classified by type, medium, and intended audience. The number of opportunities within each classification was analyzed, along with the like/comment to follower ratios, and compared via ANOVA tests.

Results

A total of 141 virtual opportunities were evaluated, with the most events occurring in August (21.6%). The highest engagement rates occurred in May and June, with the most common virtual opportunity being meet and greets with residents (39.2%). The most prevalent medium for virtual events was Zoom, used in 84.7% of events. The intended audience was frequently medical students (80.6%), with a significant difference in engagement between audience groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The pandemic has disrupted the status quo of resident recruitment. In light of these findings, residency programs should consider instilling virtual opportunities for medical students as a standard practice. Peak times to broadcast events are May or June due to higher engagement. To address attendee burnout, programs should limit events to familiar ones, such as Zoom meet and greets with residents.

A Social Media Analysis of Wellness Culture in Plastic Surgery Residency

BACKGROUND

Burnout, "a psychological syndrome of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment", afflicts approximately one third of plastic surgery attending surgeons and residents. Burnout can be detrimental to resident training and patient outcomes. Therefore, cultivating wellness during residency is essential. In fact, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education requires residency programs to create learning and working environments that optimize faculty and resident wellness. With increasing social media use by plastic surgery residency programs, this study aimed to analyze their posts for wellness-related content.

METHODS

Integrated plastic surgery residency programs were obtained from the American Council of Academic Plastic Surgeons Web site, and their associated social media accounts were identified. The authors reviewed all post images, captions, and comments made by the program's account, until July 3, 2021. Any hashtags relating to wellness were also recorded.

RESULTS

Of 82 programs, 76 (92.7%) had active Instagram accounts, 31 (37.8%) had active Facebook accounts, and 30 (36.6%) had active Twitter accounts. Instagram had higher rates of engagement than Facebook and Twitter (P < 0.001). Across all platforms, the mean percent of total posts related to wellness was 18.87%. The most common wellness content showcased resident work-life balance (48.73%), followed by educational events incorporating wellness activities (27.61%), attention to physical health (17.71%), healthy work environments (5.29%), wellness-specific activities (3.25%), team building activities (2.40%), and images implying but not directly showing resident wellness (1.46%). Programs did not vary significantly in percentages of total posts related to wellness by geographic region, ranking, or accreditation length. In total, 1893 wellness-related hashtags were used on Instagram, 253 on Facebook, and 72 on Twitter. The most used wellness-related hashtag was #residentlife. Only 40.8% to 50.8% of posts using wellness hashtags met at least 1 wellness criterion.

CONCLUSION

Despite the importance of burnout prevention during plastic surgery residency, less than a quarter of residency program social media content promote wellness. Social media can demonstrate how residency programs are incorporating wellness into their curricula, but whether residencies lack sufficient wellness initiatives or are not advertising such programming on their social media accounts remains to be studied.

Diversity in Plastic Surgery: Analysis of Representation of Sex and Ethnic Diversity in Plastic Surgery Residency Social Media Accounts

BACKGROUND

Increasing health care diversity is critical to overcoming disparities. Plastic surgery has been working to improve diversity through various efforts, including social media movements like Diversify PRS and #ilooklikeasurgeon. Because residency programs' social media sites serve as a public symbol of the programs' values and can attract potential applicants, we sought to analyze such platforms for content highlighting sex and ethnic diversity.

METHODS

Integrated plastic surgery residency programs during the 2020 to 2021 academic year were found on the American Council of Academic Plastic Surgeons website, and their associated social media accounts were identified. The authors reviewed each program's account for all posts published by November 8, 2021, for content promoting sex or ethnic diversity. Any hashtags related to diversity were also recorded. Nonparametric Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to compare percentages of total social media posts related to sex and ethnic diversity between programs (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

Of 82 programs, 76 (92.7%) had active Instagram accounts, 29 (35.4%) had active Facebook accounts, and 29 (35.4%) had active Twitter accounts. Across all platforms, 19.0% of all posts were promoting sex diversity and 3.3% were promoting ethnic diversity. Of 4651 posts promoting sex diversity, 4067 (87.4%) highlighted women, 1017 (21.9%) featured all-women teams, 779 (16.7%) used sex diversity-related hashtags, and 300 (6.5%) included purposeful statements. Of 808 posts promoting ethnic diversity, 527 (65.2%) used ethnic diversity-related hashtags, 224 (27.7%) included purposeful statements, 199 (24.6%) mentioned ethnic background, and 36 (4.5%) used different skin-toned emojis. Programs did not vary in percentages of posts related to diversity by geographic region, ranking, accreditation length, or engagement rate. The percentage of posts promoting sex diversity was greater than that promoting ethnic diversity (P < 0.001). The most used diversity hashtag was #ilooklikeasurgeon.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the importance of increasing recruitment of trainees from diverse backgrounds to plastic surgery and the global reach of social media movements like #ilooklikeasurgeon, sex and ethnic diversity are still poorly promoted on residency social media accounts. Increasing such content is a simple yet powerful way to create a culture of inclusivity for all applicants.

What Attributes Make United States Plastic Surgery Programs Desirable? Perspectives from Medical Students and Residents

BACKGROUND

Plastic surgery is a competitive specialty that attracts many qualified applicants. This study provides results of a survey conducted to identify the attributes that make integrated and independent plastic surgery residency programs in the United States most desirable. Medical students' preferences for virtual events during the 2020 to 2021 Match cycle were also investigated.

METHODS

An anonymous 7-question survey was deployed to plastic surgery residency program directors to forward to medical students and current residents during the 2021 to 2022 National Resident Matching Program cycle. Demographics and ranking of program attributes were collected in the survey, and data analysis consisted of both qualitative and quantitative results.

RESULTS

A total of 50 survey respondents from 28% of plastic surgery residency programs was received. The happiness and well-being of residents and training at their preferred geographical location were identified as the most desirable qualities of a program (P < 0.05). However, 82% of respondents opposed mandatory research (P = 0.002). There was a statistically significant larger proportion of students that highly valued faculty responsiveness to feedback over perceived program ranking (P < 0.05). In the context of COVID-19, virtual meet and greets, as well as resident happy hours, were rated most desirable (n = 35, 70%), followed by social media outreach (n = 23, 46%).

CONCLUSIONS

Resident happiness and well-being, followed by preferred geographical location, were the most favorable program attributes. Plastic surgery residency programs may seek to better integrate these preferences within their curricula, as well as showcase them on social media, to attract high-quality applicants and optimize the training experience for matched residents.

Applicant Perspectives on Virtual Otolaryngology Residency Interviews

OBJECTIVE

Residency interviews serve as an opportunity for prospective applicants to evaluate programs and to determine their potential fit within them. The 2019 SARS-CoV2 pandemic mandated programs conduct interviews virtually for the first time. The purpose of this study was to assess applicant perspectives on the virtual interview.

METHODS

A Qualtrics survey assessing applicant characteristics and attitudes toward the virtual interview was designed and disseminated to otorhinolaryngology applicants from 3 large academic institutions in the 2020 to 2021 application cycle.

RESULTS

A total of 33% of survey applicants responded. Most applicants were satisfied with the virtual interview process. Applicants reported relatively poor quality of interactions with residents and an inability to assess the "feel" of a geographic area. Most applicants received at least 11 interviews with over a third of applicants receiving >16 interviews. Only 5% of applicants completed >20 interviews. Most applicants believed interviews should be capped between 15 and 20 interviews. Most applicants reported saving >$5000, with over a quarter of applicants saving >$8000, and roughly one-third of applicants saving at least 2 weeks of time with virtual versus in-person interviews.

CONCLUSIONS

While virtual interviews have limitations, applicants are generally satisfied with the experience. Advantages include cost and time savings for both applicants and programs, as well as easy use of technology. Continuation of the virtual interview format could be considered in future application cycles; geographical limitations may be overcome with in-person second looks, and increased emphasis should be placed on resident interactions during and prior to interview day.

The Characterization of Social Media in Orthopaedic Surgery

There is a paucity of information regarding the use of social media by both orthopaedic residents and applicants. Therefore, this investigation aimed to (1) characterize the use of social media by current orthopaedic surgery residents and applicants to an orthopaedic surgery residency and (2) evaluate the influence of social media on applicants to an orthopaedic surgery residency.

Social Media Use Continues to Increase Among Orthopaedic Residency Programs in the United States

PURPOSE

To evaluate the social media usage of orthopaedic residency programs, program directors (PDs), and department chairs across Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter and to determine which types of social media posts are indicative of increased user following.

METHODS

A systematic online search strategy was performed in October 2020 to identify all allopathic orthopaedic surgery residency program accounts on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Instagram posts were further analyzed to evaluate the type of post that significantly correlated with increased follower counts.

RESULTS

Of 158 orthopaedic surgery programs, 69 (43.7%) had Instagram accounts, 52 (32.9%) had Facebook accounts, and 54 (34.2%) had Twitter accounts. Program presence on Instagram and Twitter continued to grow exponentially (R 2 = 0.99 and R 2 = 0.95, respectively). Regarding program leadership, a total of 151 PDs and 156 chairs were identified. Of these, 21 PDs (14%) and 8 chairs (5.1%) had Instagram accounts. The number of posts and the numbers of educational, social, program information, and operative posts (P < .01) significantly correlated with increased followers on Instagram.

CONCLUSIONS

Fewer than one-half of orthopaedic surgery residency programs and fewer than one-quarter of PDs and department chairs have a social media presence. However, the number of residency programs on social media continues to rise year-over-year. The total number of posts; the amount of educational, social, and program information; and the number of operative posts significantly correlated with increased followers on Instagram.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

With the growing prevalence of social media, orthopaedic surgery residency programs have the opportunity to connect with future applicants and disseminate informational content regarding their programs.

Home Field Advantage: Assessing the Geographic Trends of the Plastic Surgery Residency Match during the COVID-19 Pandemic

OBJECTIVE

In previous plastic surgery residency match cycles, in-person activities at other institutions, such as away rotations, have facilitated matches outside of an applicant's home program or region. The COVID-19 pandemic, however, limited these in-person opportunities. Therefore, we hypothesized that applicants of the 2021 cycle would be more likely to match into programs with which they have existing geographic connections when compared to previous years.

DESIGN

Residency websites and social media accounts were searched for resident names and educational information for those matching in 2021 and 2015 to 2020. Outcomes included proportion of applicants matching at the program affiliated with their medical school ("home program"), or matching in the same state or United States Census Map region as their medical school or undergraduate institution. Subgroup analyses were stratified by program region, incoming resident class size, and Doximity residency reputation ranking.

SETTING

Columbia University (New York).

PARTICIPANTS

For the 2015 to 2020 residency cycles, 963 residents were identified from 78 (95.1%) programs. For 2021, 159 incoming interns were identified from 70 (82.3%) programs.

RESULTS

2021 applicants matched into their home program at higher rates than 2015-2020 applicants (36.0% vs. 24.1%, p  = 0.019). This trend was similar regardless of program region or size. This increase was significant for programs ranked outside of the top 30 (41.5% vs. 26.4%, p = 0.032), but not for the top 30 programs (32.1% vs. 22.3%, p = 0.128). Excluding those who matched at their home program, 2015 to 2020 and 2021 applicants matched in the same state or region of their medical school or undergraduate institution at similar rates (p > 0.05 for all).

CONCLUSIONS

During the COVID-19 pandemic, plastic surgery residency programs matched more applicants from affiliated medical schools than in previous years. This may result from lack of in-person opportunities for applicants at other programs. Alternative relationship-building opportunities may facilitate broader geographic connections in the 2022 cycle.

Evaluation of Social Media Utilization by Academic Plastic Surgery Programs during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Background:

In response to the cancellation of away rotations and the shift to virtual interviews due to the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, residency programs have pursued other methods of sharing program details, most notably with the use of social media. This study aimed to evaluate the extent of social media utilization in the setting of the COVID-19 pandemic by plastic surgery residency programs.

Methods:

Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook accounts of plastic surgery programs, program directors, and chiefs were identified. Number of followers, total posts, and posts since March 1, 2020, were extracted. Account content was categorized as informational, social, operative, research, self-promotional, guest lecture, education, or other. Spearman’s coefficient was used to determine correlations among account data. Differences among regions and program pathways were evaluated using the Kruskal-Wallis test.

Results:

Since March 1, 2020, 17 Instagram, five Twitter, and three Facebook accounts have been created. Instagram was most widely used and followed (1720 posts, 1235.7 ± 735.9 followers) compared with Twitter (722 tweets, 325.6 ± 451.0 followers) and Facebook (430 posts, 338.3 ± 363.3 followers). Although the majority of content was informational (45.1 percent), Instagram contained more social content (21 percent), Twitter contained more research (21 percent), and Facebook contained more self-promotional content (25 percent). Integrated-only programs on average posted more on Instagram (21.5 ± 15.1 posts) than did independent-only programs (9.4 ± 8.5 posts), and post volume moderately correlated with number of followers. There were no statistically significant differences among regional means.

Conclusion:

Plastic surgery residency programs have incorporated social media into their recruitment strategies and will likely continue to increase and diversify their posts to effectively engage with future applicants.

Mastering the Match: Recruiting a Successful Surgery Resident

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The objective of general surgery residency is to produce competent surgeons. At a minimum this requires being procedurally and clinically capable and able to pass the board exams. Recruitment is designed to select those residents who can successfully do so. But there is more to being a successful resident than that. In this review, we attempt to define a "successful resident" and how to attract them to your program.

RECENT FINDINGS

Resident applicants are still most concerned with matching to a program that will prepare them for a surgery career. Though there is variation of importance for different applicants, resident life, comradery, and relationships with faculty or mentors do factor into residency ranking. The program website remains the most utilized resource for applicants. However, social media (SM) has an increasing role in applicants' evaluation of a program. SM and the preinterview gathering seem to expose the subjective aspects of a program most effectively. Additional assessments evaluating personality, grit or career goals may assist in screening applicants for good "fit."

SUMMARY

In order to recruit successful residents, it is necessary to determine which applicant attributes are important to the program. Additionally, a program must maintain an updated website with clearly delineated resident expectations and program strengths. The screening and interview process must be maximized to target residents with career goals complimentary to available program opportunities. If SM is utilized, post should be frequent with relevant information pertaining to both resident life and educational or clinical opportunities.

Accessing the Influence of Perceived Value on Social Attachment: Developing Country Perspective

Perceived value has a positive impact on users' social attachment in social media usage contexts and is a topic at the forefront of current research in consumer behavior. Although studies have begun to investigate the factors influencing social attachment, there is a lack of research on how perceived value affects social attachment. Therefore, this study uses privacy concern theory, to build a theoretical model with moderated and mediation roles, using Chinese Tik Tok users as data and survey sample, and applying Mplus7.0 to analyze the mediation mechanism and boundary conditions of the relationship between perceived value and social attachment through the structural equation model. In Study 1, data were collected from 600 Tik Tok users to verify the mediating role of the sense of belonging in perceived value and social attachment relationship. The users participating in the questionnaire survey were mainly from mainland China. In Study 2, two waves of data were collected from 500 Tik Tok users to verify the mediating role of the sense of belonging, and support part of the moderating role of privacy concern. However, except that the relationship between information value and social attachment is inhibited by privacy concern, the relationship between entertainment and social value and social attachment is not regulated by privacy concern. This research examines the practical effects of perceived value in the context of social media use, reveals the internal mechanism of the impact of perceived value on social attachment, and provides a reference for the innovative management and commercial practice of social media.

The Digital Dilemma: Perspectives From Otolaryngology Residency Applicants on Social Media

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of otolaryngology programs' social media on residency candidates in the 2020 to 2021 application cycle.

METHODS

An anonymous survey was distributed via Otomatch, Headmirror, and word of mouth to otolaryngology residency applicants in the 2021 Match. Survey items included demographics, social media usage, and impact of programs' social media on applicant perception and ranking. Descriptive statistics were performed, and responses based on demographic variables were compared using Fisher's exact and Mann-Whitney U tests.

RESULTS

Of 64 included respondents, nearly all (61/64, 95%) used Facebook, Instagram, and/or Twitter for personal and/or professional purposes. Applicants (59/64, 92%) most commonly researched otolaryngology residency programs on Instagram (55/59, 93%) and Twitter (36/59, 61%), with younger (P = .023) and female (P = .043) applicants being more likely to engage with programs on Instagram. Program accounts were most helpful in showcasing program culture (50/59, 85%) and highlighting its location (34/59, 58%). Nearly one third (19/59, 32%) reported that social media impacted their rank list. Age, gender, reapplication, home program status, or time taken off before and/or during medical school did not significantly influence social media's usefulness in the application cycle.

CONCLUSION

Social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter are frequently used by applicants to assess otolaryngology residency programs. Programs' social media accounts effectively demonstrate program culture and affect applicants' rank lists. As social media usage continues to rise in the medical community, these findings can help otolaryngology residency programs craft a beneficial online presence that aids in recruitment, networking, and education.

Factors Associated With Colon and Rectal Surgery Fellowship Program Ranking Before and After the COVID-19 Pandemic

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Characterizing the social media footprint of general surgery residency programs

Background

The medical community has increasingly embraced social media for a variety of purposes, including trainee education, research dissemination, professional networking, and recruitment of trainees and faculty. Platform choice and usage patterns appear to vary by specialty and purpose, but few studies comprehensively assess programs’ social media presence. Prior studies assessed general surgery departments’ Twitter use but omitted additional social media platforms and residency-specific accounts.

Objective

This study sought to broadly characterize the social media footprint of U.S. general surgery residency programs.

Methods

Using a protocolized search of program websites, social media platforms (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn), and internet search, cross-sectional data on social media usage in March 2020 were collected for programs, their affiliated departments, their program directors (PDs), and their assistant/associate PDs (APDs).

Results

318 general surgery residency programs, 313 PDs, and 296 APDs were identified. 47.2% of programs had surgery-specific accounts on ≥1 platform. 40.2% of PDs and APDs had ≥1 account on Twitter and/or LinkedIn. Program type was associated with social media adoption and Twitter utilization, with lower usage among university-affiliated and independent programs (p<0.01).

Conclusions

Most general surgery residencies, especially non-university-based programs, lacked any department or residency accounts across Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram by March 2020. These findings highlight opportunities for increased social media engagement and act as a pre-pandemic baseline for future investigations of how the shift to virtual trainee education, recruitment, conferences, and clinical care affect social media use.

Social Media and Plastic Surgery Practice Building: A Thin Line Between Efficient Marketing, Professionalism, and Ethics

Social media sites and platforms have grown in numbers with an enormous potential to reach and disseminate information in real time. They are impacting tremendously for better or for worse on the current practice of plastic surgery. As the demand for elective plastic surgery, in particular for aesthetic procedures, continues to rise, there is a need to determine the influence of social media advertisements and how it motivates the public to undergo cosmetic procedures. Most importantly, there is an urgent need to determine how the social media are impacting plastic surgery practice building and what is proper and efficient marketing while upholding ethics of the medical profession? A thorough PICO tool-based comprehensive literature search was conducted. Fifty-one peer-reviewed publications, 15 patient-centered, 33 provider-centered, and three combined patient/provider were identified to be relevant to the use of social media in plastic surgery and were selected for this review. Evidence on how social media influences the medical practice and helps in practice building remains scarce; nevertheless, reliance of plastic surgeons on social media to improve their practice has been increasing steadily. Social media may be a powerful tool to promote one's career. It presents, however, serious professional, legal, and ethical challenges including maintenance of professionalism and protecting patient confidentiality. If misused, it may be a quick way to end a plastic surgery practice.Level of Evidence V This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Pain Medicine Fellowship Program Websites in the United States of America - A Nonparametric Statistic Analysis of 14 Different Criteria

Objective

To evaluate the content of Pain Medicine Fellowship Program websites in the United States of America.

Methods

We obtained a list of accredited 104 Pain Medicine Fellowship Program websites from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education and the Electronic Residency Application Service. Individual Pain Medicine Fellowship Program websites were then evaluated on 14 different criteria. We grouped fellowship programs based on census region and Electronic Residency Application Service participation status, and analyzed the differences using nonparametric statistics.

Results

A total of 104 accredited Pain Medicine Fellowship Program websites were evaluated for a total of 14 different criteria. Of the 14 different criteria, an average of 3.94 were described in each website. Number of Fellowship positions per year (71.8%), clinical rotations during the program (65.1%), and faculty background (62.2%) were the most frequently described features on the websites. Night call responsibilities (3.9%), meal allowance (7.8%) and parking availability (10.7%) were the least described features in the websites. There were no significant differences between program websites when grouped by census regions or the participation status in the Electronic Residency Applications Service.

Conclusion

The content of Pain Medicine Fellowship Program websites is extremely variable across the United States of America. This study indicates that there is room for improvement and enhancement of the comprehensiveness of website content for the majority of the programs analyzed. Additionally, this study also emphasizes the importance of having accurate and easily available online information in a post-pandemic era, when prospective fellows evaluate programs online through their websites.

Webinar during COVID-19 Improves Knowledge of Changes to the Plastic Surgery Residency Application Process

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted residency application process for all specialties, including plastic surgery residency. Almost all plastic surgery residency programs have suspended visiting sub-internship rotations. This study quantifies the impact of a webinar through an analysis of poll questions and a post-webinar survey sent to all registered participants.

METHODS

A dedicated webinar was organized and held by the Harvard Plastic Surgery Residency Training Program. All attendees were asked several poll questions during the webinar. The 192 participants were also sent a post-webinar survey.

RESULTS

The response rate was 68.2% (n = 131). Respondents were more confident about matching into a plastic surgery residency program at the end of the webinar compared with before the webinar (P < 0.001). Respondents who did not have a plastic surgery residency program at their home institution were less confident at the start of the webinar (P = 0.009). In addition, respondents who had not taken time off for research or for other endeavors during or after medical school were less confident about their chances to match at the start of the webinar (P = 0.034).

CONCLUSIONS

An online webinar program increased confidence levels of medical students interested in applying for residency positions in plastic surgery. Residency programs should consider webinars as a method to inform and assist medical students during the upcoming application season.