P.177 The Effect of the COVID 19 Pandemic on theTraining of Surgical Residents in Canada. A Survey of Residents and Program Directors.

Abstract

Background: The coronavirus 2019 pandemic has led to restructuring of health care systems and has subsequently had secondary effects on medical education. This study examines the impact on training of surgical residents in Canada. Methods: The study consisted of a 25-question survey for residents and a 22-question survey for program directors, which were distributed electronically through program administrators on July 3rd- July 11th, 2020. Questions sought to elicit residents’ current experiences and gain insight into methods by which to enhance future training. Results: 108 residents and 21 program directors, from various surgical specialties across Canada, completed the survey. Operative exposures were reported to be reduced by 25-100% and 39% of residents were redeployed. However, 89% of residents reported accessing academic half days virtually and 57% had additional online modules. Despite lost time, 100% of program directors confirmed that residents did not require training extensions. Concerns regarding training, personal health, employability and fellowships were raised. 55-70% of residents and program directors advocated for alternative educational courses, increasing elective time, utilizing simulation for assessment and flexibility in crediting different training experiences. Conclusions: Canadian surgical residents had a significant reduction in operative experiences during the pandemic. Moving forward, it will be important to find alternative educational experiences.