Perspectives of anesthesia residents training in Canada on fellowship training, research, and future practice location

Abstract

Purpose We conducted this study to determine the preferences of anesthesia residents training in Canada for fellowship training, research, and future practice location and to identify the factors that influence those preferences. Methods Using a cross-sectional study design, a survey was sent to all anesthesia residents enrolled at an accredited Canadian anesthesiology residency program (N = 629). Data were collected on demographics and preferences for fellowship training, research, and future practice location. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to determine significant associations. Results Two hundred forty-four residents (39%) responded to the survey. Seventy percent of residents intended to pursue fellowship training. The top three fellowships they favoured were regional anesthesia, intensive care, and cardiac anesthesia. Male sex was positively associated with the decision to pursue fellowship training, whereas having an additional graduate degree was negatively associated with this choice. Among those pursuing fellowship training, the most influential factors were personal interest, enhancing employability, and an interest in an academic career. Fiftyseven percent of residents preferred to work at an academic hospital. Thirty-four percent of residents intended to incorporate research into their future practice, and personal interest, employability, and colleagues were most influential in their decision. Research activity and publishing in residency were associated with the desire to pursue future research initiatives. Conclusion The majority of anesthesia residents training in Canada choose to pursue fellowship training and work

Job shortages in anesthesia: a pro or con?

“…Instead, a focus on patient impact and career satisfaction is strongly recommended. 15,16 Beyond residency training, fellowship programs could see a downturn if the numbers of available graduates should ultimately fall. Nevertheless, new graduates will face pressure to acquire additional training and skills (beyond graduating requirements) in order to gain advantage over their peers.…”

“…En revanche, il leur est fortement recommandé de réfléchir à l'impact pour les patients et à la satisfaction professionnelle envers leur carrière. 15,16 Après la formation reçue pendant la résidence, les programmes de fellowship pourraient être délaissés si le nombre de diplômés disponibles devait chuter. Les nouveaux diplômés seront toutefois vivement incités à acquérir des habiletés et une formation supplémentaires (dépassant les exigences du diplôme) afin d'avoir plus d'atouts que leurs pairs.…”

In Reply: Fellowships and subspecialization in anesthesia: Are they good, bad, or both?

“…Mutter for his insightful comments 1 regarding our article on the perspectives of anesthesia residents training in Canada on fellowship pursuits. 2 Fellowship training objectives have long been diverse and varied, and they frequently vary among hospitals, university departments, and fellows' goals. Although it is possible that some of the subspecialty areas may come under some form of regulation by one of our national bodies, we do not believe that this level of regulation is required for all clinical fellowships as it would contribute to unnecessary ''credential creep.''…”

“…This is an important issue given that approximately 27% of residents are influenced by advice from their mentors or program director. 2 Conflicts of interest should be recognized and managed in a way that allows both parties to benefit in a stable system that is not only sustainable over time but evolves to accommodate the changing environment of job availability, economics, and models of care.…”

So…why do you want to become an anesthesiologist?

“…Khan et al, 1 and O'Leary and Murphy 2 in their accompanying editorial, determine the factors that influence career choices in anesthesia, including finding an area that engages the ''spirit'' and having the right mentor (whether by traditional model 3 or peer-peer mentorship).…”