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Culpepper S, Leonik C, Mosalakanti S, Rumps MV, Mulcahey MK. Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program Websites: Assessing Information Gaps and Opportunities for Attracting Applicants. J Am Acad Orthop Surg 2024; 32:800-806. [PMID: 38861721 DOI: 10.5435/jaaos-d-24-00171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The quality and volume of information on orthopaedic surgery residency program websites are helpful for informed decision making of prospective applicants. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the content on orthopaedic surgery residency program websites and identify areas for improvement. METHODS In November 2023, 203 orthopaedic surgery residency programs were reviewed using the Association of American Medical Colleges Residency Explorer tool. Fourteen nonfunctional websites were excluded, leaving n = 189. Websites were assessed for 11 variables: resources for assisting resident research (eg, biomechanics laboratory, research assistant, and advisors), residents' past institutional affiliations, current resident profiles (including hometown and interests), alumni data, fellowship matches, American Board of Orthopedic Surgery I/II pass rates, Alpha Omega Alpha Society affiliation, target United States Medical Licensing Examination/ Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Learning Exam Step 2 scores, educational activities (journal club, grand rounds, didactics), evaluation methods, and mentorship. RESULTS Website variables differed markedly among identified program types, which included community programs, university programs (UPs), and affiliated programs (APs). Disparities were noted in the disclosure of residents' previous institutions ( P = 0.001), the availability of alumni names ( P = 0.001), research resources ( P = 0.001), academic activities ( P = 0.007), assigned mentorship programs ( P = 0.006), and fellowship match information ( P = 0.027). Notably, community programs shared statistically significantly less information in these areas compared with UPs and APs ( P = 0.001). While there was a proportionate sharing of information between UPs and APs, UPs exhibited a slightly higher overall percentage of websites sharing more detailed information. CONCLUSION The quality and comprehensiveness of information on orthopaedic surgery residency program websites vary markedly. Most of the orthopaedic surgery residency programs provided information on residents' past institutions and academic activities. However, very few provided information on designated mentorship programs or objective measures such as target Step 2 examination scores and ABOS pass rates. Improving the quality of information available on program websites will enhance transparency and consistency, enabling prospective applicants to make more informed decisions about where to apply and interview.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia Culpepper
- From the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA (Culpepper and Mosalakanti), the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA (Leonik), and the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL (Rumps and Mulcahey)
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Donato Z, Syros A, Milner J, Pandya S, Tandron M, Hernandez G. "Sawbones": A pilot study assessing simulation-based orthopedic training for medical students. J Orthop 2023; 44:66-71. [PMID: 37700780 PMCID: PMC10493496 DOI: 10.1016/j.jor.2023.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Intro Simulation-based training has become a valuable new tool in medical education across the country. The Orthopedic Surgery Interest Group (OSIG) at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine organized a benchtop training workshop known as "Sawbones" to give medical students essential exposure to basic techniques and instruments commonly used in orthopedic surgery. This pilot study seeks to investigate the participating students' perceptions of this workshop as part of a potential longitudinal intervention. Methods A total of 30 medical students (MS1-MS4) with a documented interest in orthopedic surgery were randomly selected via email invitation to participate in this workshop. Students first had a lecture-based training session with faculty on an overview of screw fixation. Participants then formed groups that were headed by an orthopedic resident or attending and took turns fixing fractures on model bones made of synthetic material. Following the session, students were sent an anonymous Qualtrics survey to assess their satisfaction with the workshop. Results A total of 22 students (73%), responded to the survey. On a ten-point scale, the average reported interest in orthopedics was 9.2 (SD 0.4). All students (n = 22, 100%) reported that they would like more hands-on orthopedic experiences as a component of their medical education. Nineteen students (86.4%) reported that this training increased their interest in pursuing a career in orthopedic surgery and twenty-one (95.5%) further stated that they would recommend this training to other students. Discussion Based on the results of this pilot study, Sawbones was promising at engaging students in orthopedics, providing a team environment, and introducing students to orthopedic skills and instrumentation. Providing these sessions in a longitudinal manner could provide opportunities for mentorship and better prepare students for a residency in orthopedics. We recommend a program like Sawbones to better address the lack of Orthopedic exposure in medical school.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Donato
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1600 NW 10th Ave #1140, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Alina Syros
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1600 NW 10th Ave #1140, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Jacob Milner
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1600 NW 10th Ave #1140, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Shivani Pandya
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1600 NW 10th Ave #1140, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Marissa Tandron
- University of Miami/Jackson Health Systems Department of Orthopedic Surgery, 1611 NW 12th Ave #303, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Giselle Hernandez
- University of Miami/Jackson Health Systems Department of Orthopedic Surgery, 1611 NW 12th Ave #303, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
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Chunn RA, Clark DES, Ozcan MMCH. A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Military Physician Residency Websites. Mil Med 2023; 188:e2489-e2495. [PMID: 36222085 PMCID: PMC9619598 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usac293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Medical physician residency program websites often serve as the first contact for any prospective applicant. No analysis of military residency program websites has yet been conducted, in contrast to their civilian counterparts. This study evaluated all military residency programs certified by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) 2021-2022 to determine program website comprehensiveness and accessibility and identify areas for improvement. MATERIALS AND METHODS A list of military residency programs in the USA was compiled using Defense Health Agency Graduate Medical Education resources together with the ACGME database. A total of 15 objective website criteria covering education and recruitment content were assessed by two independent evaluators. Accessibility was also scored. Programs' website scores were compared by geographic location, specialty affiliation, type of institution partnership, and program size. Analysis was performed with descriptive statistics and comparison via an unpaired t-test or Kruskal-Wallis analysis, as appropriate. RESULTS A total of 124 military residency program websites were evaluated with a range of scores from 0 to 15 out of 15 possible points. Six programs had no identifiable website. All three services were represented with 43% joint-service programs. Content concerning physician education and development was more widely available than content directed toward the recruitment of applicants. The number of residency program websites reporting each content criterion varied greatly, but overall, no single service had a significantly higher score across their residencies' websites. Significant variation occurred among individual specialties (P < .05) but there was no significant difference in surgical and nonsurgical specialties. Civilian-associated programs (18 programs, 14.5%) were associated with significantly greater website comprehensiveness scored best on informatics measures for recruitment and performed 64% better than military-only programs overall. CONCLUSIONS Program information in an accessible website platform allows prospective applicants to gain comprehensive perspectives of programs during the application process without reliance on personal visits and audition rotations. Limitations to in-person experiences, such as those caused by reductions in travel and concern for student safety during the global pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, may be alleviated by accessible virtual information. Our results indicate that there is opportunity for all military residency programs to improve their websites and better recruit applicants through understanding their audience and optimizing their reach online.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raegan A Chunn
- F. Edward Herbert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - Delaney E S Clark
- John Sealy School of Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Maj Meghan C H Ozcan
- Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
- Women and Infants, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Providence, RI 02905, USA
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Boudreau HS, Das S, George JA, Godzik J. Neurosurgery Applicant Perspective of Neurosurgery Residency Websites. World Neurosurg 2023; 171:e672-e678. [PMID: 36566981 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2022.12.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Applicants rely heavily on virtual information in the form of neurosurgery residency websites (NRWs) to better understand a program's culture, faculty, and opportunities. There is a paucity of information regarding the value of NRW on applicant decision making. The advent of the supplemental ERAS application and continuation of virtual interviews may increase the propensity of which applicants use NRW. The objective of our study was to distribute a survey to further understand applicants' perceptions and opinions of NRW, as well as provide future direction for NRW optimization. METHODS The current study is a single-institution, retrospective survey design. A survey was designed via Qualtrics software to evaluate applicant demographics, resident education, resident recruitment, and future directions. The survey includes the most frequently used variables on NRW. The survey was distributed to neurosurgery applicants who received an interview at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel. RESULTS Among the 293 applicants who received a link to the survey, 87/293 (29.7%) completed it. Respondents elected that useful website variables were "resident rotation schedules and hospital locations," "faculty listings and biographies," and "neurosurgery residency websites served as a first impression of a neurosurgery residency program." More than half of the respondents agreed that their rank list would not be the same without an NRW. The most strongly received statement for future directions was "Neurosurgery residency programs will benefit from renovating their residency website." CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest NRWs play a vital role in resident recruitment and decision making. Residency programs will benefit from this data and may use it to restructure their virtual recruitment tools and discover innovative virtual recruitment strategies. Our team elucidated the most important variables found on NRWs and proposed future directions for their improvement and the virtual application and recruitment process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hunter S Boudreau
- Division of Neurological Surgery, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Somnath Das
- Division of Neurological Surgery, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Jordan A George
- Division of Neurological Surgery, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Jakub Godzik
- Division of Neurological Surgery, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama, USA.
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Martinez VH, Quirarte JA, Smith MD, Gibbons SD, Rose RA. The Competitiveness of Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Programs: A Twenty-Year Analysis Utilizing a Normalized Competitive Index. SURGERY IN PRACTICE AND SCIENCE 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sipas.2023.100155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
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Evaluating Databases With Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program Information. J Am Acad Orthop Surg 2022; 30:1177-1183. [PMID: 36417565 DOI: 10.5435/jaaos-d-22-00164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Orthopaedic surgery residency applicants submit more applications than ever before. While this issue is multifactorial, increased information and transparency regarding residency programs are important. This study aimed to evaluate the completeness and variability of the information that is currently available regarding orthopaedic residency programs on two publicly available databases, the Fellowship and Residency Electronic Interactive Database (FREIDA) and the newly created Orthopaedic Residency Information Network (ORIN). METHODS Orthopaedic surgery residency programs were identified and evaluated using FREIDA and ORIN on September 11, 2021. Information on the FRIEDA and ORIN databases were evaluated in the following categories: program overview, the residency application, and education information. Univariate statistical analysis was performed on the data. RESULTS Of the 194 programs that participated in the FREIDA database, over 48% failed to include basic program information including resident demographics and key application information including USMLE Step requirements. Of the 141 programs that participated in the ORIN database, most the programs did not report USMLE Step median and cutoff scores and clerkship grades. Depending on the database and type of information, factors including the program's National Institutes of Health funding, reputation, size, and type were associated with the availability of information. CONCLUSION This study showed that while most orthopaedic surgery residency programs participate in FREIDA and ORIN, the information included was highly variable and incomplete for nearly all programs. Improving the completeness of information in these databases has the potential to allow students to make more informed application decisions.
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Social Media Use by Hand Surgery Fellowship Programs. J Am Acad Orthop Surg 2022; 30:728-734. [PMID: 35192569 DOI: 10.5435/jaaos-d-21-00898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Social media has emerged as a useful tool in the fellowship recruitment process. We aimed to assess the prevalence of social media use among hand surgery fellowships, to analyze social media posts according to content, and to evaluate the level of engagement generated by specific content. METHODS We used a list of accredited hand surgery fellowships from the American Society for Surgery of the Hand Fellowship Directory to identify all hand surgery fellowship profiles on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Instagram was the most commonly used platform and thus the focus of this study. Two reviewers independently assessed all Instagram posts from each program and assigned content labels. We assessed the variability in content published by each program using a Monte Carlo estimation of an exact chi-square test. We calculated the level of engagement generated by each content label using the number of likes per post per number of account followers. We analyzed the variability in engagement using a Kruskal-Wallis test. RESULTS We identified 21 Instagram accounts from 89 fellowship programs (24%). Seventeen of 21 (81%) were created after the onset of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. There was significant variability in the scope of content published by each program ( P < 0.0001) and in the level of engagement generated by each content label ( P < 0.0001). Skills, conferences, fellow, case example(s), faculty, and team dynamics generated some of the most engagement. Logistics, miscellaneous, and facilities generated the least. DISCUSSION There is wide variability in the content produced by hand fellowship programs. Specific types of content generate more engagement from followers than others. This information may guide fellowship programs to produce the type of content potential applicants find most useful when making application and rank list decisions.
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Deivasigamani S, Jimenez D, Grenda T, Tholey RM. Implementation of a Structured Surgery Mentorship Program and Success in the Surgical Residency Match. J Surg Res 2022; 279:97-103. [PMID: 35753107 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2022.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION General Surgery residency programs remain competitive, with over a quarter of US MD seniors failing to match into a categorical program each year. While previous literature has shown the role of mentorship in attracting medical students to surgery, there is a dearth of information demonstrating the role of mentorship in successfully matching those students to surgery programs. METHODS We implemented a structured mentorship program for medical students interested in applying to general surgery or integrated plastics, vascular, or cardiothoracic residencies over the course of one year, consisting of seven standardized meetings and events spanning the students' MS3 and MS4 years. Following Match Day, we sent students a five-point Likert scale survey to assess the perceived utility of each event and solicited self-reported application information. RESULTS Of the 22 students at a single institution who attended the structured mentorship program and applied to general surgery residency, 100% matched into a categorical program, significantly higher than the 73% national match rate of US MD seniors into general surgery (P < 0.01). There were no significant differences between the two cohorts in terms of United States Medical Licensing Examination board scores, Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society status, or median number of publications, research experiences, work experiences, or volunteer experiences. Nineteen of the 22 students responded to the survey, yielding an 86% response rate. Ninety percent of the students attended at least six out of the seven events. Six out of the seven events had median helpfulness scores (out of five) that were significantly higher than a "neutral" baseline (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS A structured mentorship program may play a useful role in successfully matching general surgery applicants to residencies and would be a simple and low-cost program to implement at other medical schools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shruthi Deivasigamani
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
| | - Diana Jimenez
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Tyler Grenda
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Renee M Tholey
- Department of Surgery, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Enson J, Malik-Tabassum K, Faria A, Faria G, Gill K, Rogers B. The impact of mentoring in trauma and orthopaedic training: a systematic review. Ann R Coll Surg Engl 2022; 104:400-408. [PMID: 35446153 PMCID: PMC9157945 DOI: 10.1308/rcsann.2021.0330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Trauma and orthopaedics is renowned for being a challenging yet rewarding career. The value of mentorship in medical and surgical training is known to be beneficial; however, the prevalence and quality of mentorship opportunities in orthopaedics are less well studied. Identifying the strengths and weaknesses of mentoring programmes in orthopaedic training and recognising barriers to effective mentorship are key to unlocking the full potential of future orthopaedic surgeons. METHODS A comprehensive search of PubMed, Medline, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library was performed. All studies published in the English language that reported data on mentorship programmes in orthopaedic training were included. FINDINGS A total of 23 studies met the inclusion criteria. These studies demonstrated that formal mentorship programmes in orthopaedics are lacking but are sought after, with a positive influence on satisfaction and future career choice/subspecialty selection identified. Several barriers to mentoring in the field were recognised including the difficulty faced by female trainees, the availability of mentors and time constraints. The opportunity to choose a mentor, a mentor with the same interests, regular meetings and the option of gender congruent mentorship were all identified as crucial requirements for effective mentorship. CONCLUSION Mentorship opportunities must be more accessible to all orthopaedic trainees alike and should aim to incorporate the attributes identified to provide the highest calibre of training to prospective orthopaedic surgeons.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Enson
- University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | | | - A Faria
- Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - G Faria
- East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - K Gill
- Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - B Rogers
- Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, UK
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Brinkman JC, Deckey DG, Tummala SV, Hassebrock JD, Spangehl MJ, Bingham JS. Orthopaedic Residency Applicants' Perspective on Program-Based Social Media. JB JS Open Access 2022; 7:JBJSOA-D-22-00001. [PMID: 35620527 PMCID: PMC9116946 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.oa.22.00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Social media and online resources have been used in graduate medical education for years. In addition to an official residency program website, many orthopaedic surgery programs have an established social media presence to interact, educate, and engage with prospective applicants. The role of social media in orthopaedic surgery has significantly expanded in recent years. Despite its increasing use, the specific impact of social media on orthopaedic surgery residency applicants remains unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph C. Brinkman
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - David G. Deckey
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Sailesh V. Tummala
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Phoenix, Arizona
| | | | - Mark J. Spangehl
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Joshua S. Bingham
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Phoenix, Arizona
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Holderread BM, Han A, Mand DS, Liu J, Harris JD, Liberman SR. Effects of COVID-19 on Geographical Trends in the Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Match. JB JS Open Access 2022; 7:JBJSOA-D-21-00107. [PMID: 35923814 PMCID: PMC9302316 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.oa.21.00107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Historically, medical students often match within the same geographic location or to an orthopaedic surgery residency program affiliated with their medical school. The objective of this investigation was to determine differences in geographic trends between orthopaedic residents matching before and during the Coronavirus-19 (COVID-19) pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan M. Holderread
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - Alex Han
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - Davinder S. Mand
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Baylor Scott and White Health, Temple, Texas
| | - Jonathan Liu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Joshua D. Harris
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - Shari R. Liberman
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
- E-mail address for S.R. Liberman:
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Holderread BM, Liu J, Wininger AE, Harris JD, Liberman SR. The Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Orthopaedic Residency Program Social Media Utilization. JB JS Open Access 2021; 6:JBJSOA-D-21-00104. [PMID: 34746630 PMCID: PMC8568352 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.oa.21.00104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic created an unprecedented challenge for orthopaedic surgery residency applicants when away rotations were canceled and interviews were held virtually. The authors hypothesized that (1) Instagram would have more total social media accounts compared with Twitter or Facebook, (2) most social media accounts on all platforms would be created during 2020, and (3) the average number of Instagram followers would be higher among highly ranked programs. Methods A list of Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-accredited orthopaedic surgery residency programs (n = 202) that were ranked by reputation was acquired from Doximity. Public Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter profiles of orthopaedic surgery residency programs were identified through a manual search. Variables assessed on each social media platform were all available summary statistics provided by the social media platform. Instagram accounts were categorized into 5 tiers based on numeric reputation ranking, with 40 programs in each tier (except tier 5 with 42 programs). Descriptive statistics were calculated, and continuous data were presented as mean ± standard deviation. Goodness-of-fit regression values were calculated for observed trends. Results One-hundred seventy-four social media accounts were identified. There was a higher percentage of Instagram accounts (66.1%) compared with Facebook (13.2%) or Twitter (20.7%). From 2010 to 2020, an exponential increase (R2 = 0.88) of social media accounts was observed during 2020. Instagram profiles (77.2%, 98/115 [95 in 2020, 3 in 2021]) were created after the cancelation of away rotations in May 2020. Instagram profiles had 1,029 ± 522.4 average followers, more than Facebook and Twitter. Tier 1 residency programs had the largest average follower count with 1,462.4 ± 584.3 followers. Conclusion Social media presence increased exponentially during 2020. Instagram was the social media platform with the most accounts. Many Instagram accounts were created during 2020, and most were created after away rotations were canceled during the COVID-19 pandemic. Instagram accounts averaged the most followers. Top tier orthopaedic residency programs had a greater number of accounts and average followers than lower tier programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan M Holderread
- Department of Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - Jonathan Liu
- Department of Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas.,Department of Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Austin E Wininger
- Department of Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - Joshua D Harris
- Department of Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - Shari R Liberman
- Department of Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
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El Shatanofy M, Brown L, Berger P, Gu A, Sharma AK, Campbell J, Tabaie S. Orthopedic Surgery Residency Program Website Content and Accessibility During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Observational Study. JMIR MEDICAL EDUCATION 2021; 7:e30821. [PMID: 34449406 PMCID: PMC8437405 DOI: 10.2196/30821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The exceptional competitiveness of the orthopedic surgery specialty, combined with the unclear impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on residency recruitment, has presented significant challenges to applicants and residency program directors. With limited in-person opportunities in the 2020-2021 application cycle, applicants have been pressed to gauge chances and best fit by browsing program websites. OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to assess the accessibility and content of accredited orthopedic surgery residency program websites during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Using the online database of the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), we compiled a list of accredited orthopedic surgery residency programs in the United States. Program websites were evaluated across four domains: program overview, education, research opportunities, and application details. Each website was assessed twice in July 2020, during a period of adjustment to the COVID-19 pandemic, and twice in November 2020, following the October ERAS application deadline. RESULTS A total of 189 accredited orthopedic surgery residency programs were identified through ERAS. Of these programs, 3 (1.6%) did not have functional website links on ERAS. Data analysis of content in each domain revealed that most websites included program details, a description of the didactic curriculum, and sample rotation schedules. Between the two evaluation periods in July and November 2020, the percentage of program websites containing informative videos and virtual tours rose from 12.2% (23/189) to 48.1% (91/189; P<.001) and from 0.5% (1/189) to 13.2% (25/189; P<.001), respectively. However, the number of programs that included information about a virtual subinternship or virtual interview on their websites did not change. Over the 4-month period, larger residency programs with 5 or more residents were significantly more likely to add a program video (P<.001) or virtual tour (P<.001) to their websites. CONCLUSIONS Most residency program websites offered program details and an overview of educational and research opportunities; however, few addressed the virtual transition of interviews and subinternships during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad El Shatanofy
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Lauryn Brown
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Peter Berger
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Alex Gu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Abhinav K Sharma
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Orange, CA, United States
| | - Joshua Campbell
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Sean Tabaie
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States
- Division of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
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Yong TM, Pappas MA, Ray GS, McManus TG, Coe MP. Analyzing the Proliferation of Social Media Use Among Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Programs. JB JS Open Access 2021; 6:JBJSOA-D-21-00017. [PMID: 34291181 PMCID: PMC8291354 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.oa.21.00017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Social media can influence how students and residents learn about and select graduate medical education programs. COVID-19-related travel restrictions forced residencies to adapt their recruitment strategies. The objective of our investigation was to characterize the prevalence of social media use by orthopaedic surgery residency programs and to examine any change over time before the COVID-19 pandemic and leading up to the 2020 to 2021 virtual interview season. Methods The Fellowship and Residency Electronic Interactive Database was queried for all orthopaedic surgery residency programs (N = 164). We performed a cross-sectional analysis on the use of Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram by orthopaedic surgery residency programs in May 2019, July 2020, and November 2020. Orthopaedic surgery residency programs were systematically identified on each of the social media platforms. Descriptive statistics were used to facilitate comparisons between the time points. Results Seventy-six social media accounts were identified in May 2019 compared with 239 in November 2020-a greater than 300% increase in 19 months. The prevalence of residency programs using Facebook increased from 21.3% in May 2019 to 30.5% in July 2020 to 36.0% in November 2020. Similar increases in prevalence were identified for Twitter (15.2%-31.7% then 43.9%) and Instagram (9.1% to 37.2% to 65.9%). In May 2019, we identified 35 programs with Facebook accounts, 26 with Twitter accounts, and 15 with Instagram accounts. By November 2020, this increased to 59 Facebook accounts, 72 Twitter accounts, and 108 Instagram accounts. This corresponds to an expansion in the use of each platform by 69%, 177%, and 620% for Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, respectively. Conclusions The use of social media by academic orthopaedic surgery residency programs increased substantially over the study period. The adoption of Instagram seems to be occurring at the fastest rate. Social media may represent a useful tool in resident recruitment, but the platform must be carefully selected and planned to avoid unintended dilemmas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor M Yong
- Department of Orthopaedics, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Matthew A Pappas
- Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire
| | - Gabrielle S Ray
- Department of Orthopaedics, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Timothy G McManus
- Department of Orthopaedics, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Marcus P Coe
- Department of Orthopaedics, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire.,Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire
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