31. Workplace Bias Affecting Applicants to Independent Plastic Surgery Residencies

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study is to investigate what factors encouraged applicants to pursue independent plastic surgery residencies, as well as assess whether they faced any negative consequences or biases for this decision. Methods: Residents who applied to two academic independent plastic surgery residencies in 2021 and 2022 were emailed a 25-question survey through the online data collection program RedCap. The survey addressed respondent demographics, reasons for applying to plastic surgery, experiences with plastic surgery and experiences during general surgery residency including perceived bias regarding the choice to pursue a career in plastic surgery. Responses were collected anonymously and responses were analyzed using Microsoft Excel. Results: 39 complete responses were collected (21.2%). All respondents participated in a general surgery residency, with 12.8% (5/39) having applied to integrated plastic surgery during medical school, 15.4% (6/39) completing a preliminary residency year, and 28.2% (11/39) participating in plastic surgery-focused research year(s). Participating in plastic surgery cases and interactions with plastic surgery faculty and residents were the most common reasons for applying into plastic surgery, with 76.9% (30/39) citing these experiences. 23.1% (9/39) felt their attendings and program directors were not supportive of their decision to apply to plastic surgery. 64.1% (25/39) agreed that faculty made demeaning comments or jokes about their choice to go into plastic surgery, while 25.6% (10/39) experienced this behavior from co-residents. 17.9% (7/39) reported that they developed stress or anxiety due to how co-residents and faculty treated them regarding their decision. Conclusion: General surgery residents planning to apply to independent plastic surgery residencies frequently experience lack of support from faculty/program directors, as well as endure demeaning comments or jokes that can cause additional stress and anxiety. An important opportunity exists to support independent applicants and provide mentorship.