Pediatric and adolescent gynecology experience in academic and community OB/GYN residency programs in Michigan

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to assess training in Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology (PAG) at the Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN) resident level. Setting: Two large Michigan programs were studied: a university-based, inner-city program, and a suburban, community-based program. Seventy-one questionnaires were distributed to the residents, and descriptive and inferential analysis of answers to demographic, training, attitude, and knowledge-based questions regarding PAG was performed. Results: Sixty-one questionnaires were returned, a response rate of 86%. The majority of respondents reported no PAG rotations or clinics and recalled limited didactic sessions with only 0–2 lectures. Ninety-eight percent of university residents and 94% of community residents requested more PAG training. Comfort levels about PAG issues were assessed on a 5 point scale (1 = low, 5 = high comfort); university residents scored 3.7 with pediatric patients and 4.4 with adolescents, and community residents scored 4.0 with the pediatric age group and 4.3 with adolescents. However, both groups responded with familiarity to knowledge based questions only 61% of the time. Conclusions: OB/GYN residents in both academic and community programs report little experience and scant training in PAG but express interest in obtaining the skills and information needed. It is concerning that residents lack the basic knowledge that is required for the routine daily care of this patient population. More emphasis needs to be placed on these issues in OB/GYN residency training programs.