The current status of allergy training in otolaryngology residency programs

Abstract

Allergy is an important part of the practice of otolaryngology. The American Board of Otolaryngology (ABO) and the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) have increased specific requirements to include allergy as part of the didactic curriculum in training programs and in examinations of all levels. However, how much actual allergy training and education occurs in otolaryngology residency programs is unclear. The current and upcoming changes in ABO and ACGME requirements are reviewed, which include and expand on required allergy education in residency programs and standardized testing, including intraining, written, and maintenance of certification examinations. There is a dearth of literature regarding resident training in otolaryngic allergy and evaluation of resident competency in this area. A recent resident survey indicates that almost half of residents feel undertrained in this area and desire more education. Despite increasing requirements and specifications for allergy training from the ABO and ACGME, how much actual training and education in otolaryngology allergy occurs in residency programs is uncertain. Residents' survey responses indicate it is not enough and there is a void in the literature regarding this topic and resident competency assessment in this area. Further investigation is needed to help determine how residents are being trained and assessed.