Obstetrics and Gynecology Career Choices—The Impact of Mentorship [10B

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Obstetrics and gynecology (OBGYN) training programs must prepare graduates for both direct entry into practice and further sub-specialization training. Regardless of career plans, residents are expected to gain competence in a broad spectrum of clinical and operative situations. Mentors are one of many adjuncts used by residency programs to produce well-trained physicians. This study aims to determine a mentor's impact on the career choices of current OBGYN residents. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted over 3 months. A 25-item questionnaire related to career choices and mentorship was distributed to current OBGYN residents at the University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada. Chi-square was used to test the differences. RESULTS: 31 of 62 residents responded. 74% were female and 26% were male. 26%, 13%, 23%, 16% and 23% were PGY-1, -2, -3, -4, and -5, respectively. Of the 71% of residents who entered residency with defined career plans, 81% did not feel their residency experience altered those plans. Of the 61% who had a mentor, 21% were assigned mentors while 58% sought out their own mentors. Male residents were more likely to have same gender mentors compared to female residents (83% vs 69%, P=.033). 70% felt that their mentor was important or very important in their career decisions. 53% were interested in the same field as their mentor. 86% felt that a formal career-planning program would be helpful. CONCLUSION: While many OBGYN trainees enter residency with a career plan, mentors can have a strong impact on aiding career decisions. A career-planning program would also be beneficial.