National appraisal of dermatology residency training - A Canadian study

Objectives: To provide the first comprehensive assessment of dermatology residency training in Canada based on the residents' perspective; to examine and elucidate trends in current residents' envisioned career paths and aspirations. Design: A national survey conducted in June 2004. Participants: All Canadian dermatology residents. Main Outcome Measures: Cross-sectional analysis of (1) satisfaction with and importance placed by the trainees on the various curriculum components as measured by a 5-point Likert-type scale and (2) current residents' career and practice plans. Results: One hundred percent of dermatology residents across the country (n=48) responded to the survey. The greatest discrepancies between ranked importance and corresponding satisfaction were observed for the teaching from faculty (both didactic and clinic based) and for the practice management exposure and training. Residents were most satisfied with dermatopathology education (score, 4.4 of 5.0) and least satisfied with cosmetic dermatology (2.7 of 5.0) and dermoscopy training (2.8 of 5.0). Men indicated more interest than women in academics (71% [n = 12] vs 45% [n= 14]), research (41% [n= 7] vs 16% [n=5]), and teaching (71% [n= 12] vs 42% [n= 13]), while female residents were more inclined toward pediatric dermatology (42% [n=13] vs 29% [n=5]) and cosmetic dermatology (48% [n=15] vs 29% [n=5]). An overall trend of decreased interest in academic and hospital-based practice was noted with progression through residency training. Conclusions: This study provides a current picture of dermatology postgraduate education in Canada from the residents' perspective. Above all, dermatology residents desire more teaching (clinic, didactic, and practice management) and mentorship from their faculty. Recruitment and retention of women in academic dermatology may benefit from early intervention during residency. The data are intended to assist dermatology programs with development, evaluation, and improvement of their curricula and can serve as a reference point to gauge future trends.