Needs assessment in head and neck surgical oncology training: A qualitative study of expert opinions

Abstract

Background Few studies have investigated the needs of head and neck surgery trainees and areas for improvement of fellowship programs. Methods We conducted a qualitative study by interviewing a nationally representative sample of program directors and national leaders in head and neck surgery. We asked about the current state and strengths of training; and areas for further improvement. All interviews were independently coded and analyzed by two reviewers. Results All experts (100%) believed that the current training provides a strong foundation and furthermore, a standardized curriculum is beneficial. Multidisciplinary training (80%), participation in tumor boards (75%), and a syllabus (60%) were the most frequently mentioned components. Most believed that a formal certification process would be beneficial (73%), though there was no consensus on the format. Conclusion Experts in head and neck surgery are generally in favor of a standardized curriculum. Further discussions of a formal certification process might be warranted.

Virtual Tumor Boards for Remote Learning in Head and Neck Surgical Oncology

“…The differentiating factor for the AHNS Virtual Tumor Board series was the intention to use the format as a novel teaching tool to educate trainees. This strategy was based on our findings from interviewing experts in head and neck surgery, who agreed that the tumor board is an effective learning tool . After operationalizing this opinion for more than 2 years, we investigated the educational value of this format.…”

“…This strategy was based on our findings from interviewing experts in head and neck surgery, who agreed that the tumor board is an effective learning tool. 12 After operationalizing this opinion for more than 2 years, we investigated the educational value of this format. Viewership data presented in this study suggested that the sessions were well-attended, and survey results indicated that attendees found the sessions to be educational.…”

“…Leaders in head and neck surgery education agree there is a need for a standardized national curriculum. 12 This need was accelerated in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, when many existing educational programs housed at host institutions were paused. Findings of the present study suggest that a remote tumor board can be an effective remote learning tool with a national and international reach.…”

“…The standard channels for fellows to be exposed to techniques performed at other institutions include courses, national meetings, and publications. Leaders in head and neck surgery education agree there is a need for a standardized national curriculum . This need was accelerated in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, when many existing educational programs housed at host institutions were paused.…”