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Systematic Review of the Cost and Burden of Applying to Plastic Surgery Compared to other Specialties
Egro FM, Smith BS, Nguyen VT
University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine - Dept. of Plastic Surgery
2018-01-25
Presenter: Brandon Smith
Affidavit:
Vu T. Nguyen
Director Name: Vu T. Nguyen
Author Category: Medical Student
Presentation Category: Clinical
Abstract Category: General Reconstruction
Matching into plastic surgery residency is costly and challenging. The aim of this study was to analyze the current literature on residency spending to develop a more accurate estimate of the costs of applying to plastic surgery residency and frame its comparison with other specialties. We hypothesized that the cost of the plastic surgery (PRS) residency application process represents a significant burden compared to other specialties like Internal Medicine (IM), Family Medicine (FM) and General Surgery (GS).
A comprehensive literature search of the PubMed and MEDLINE databases and related references was conducted in January of 2017 using directed search terms. Of the two hundred twenty-four articles evaluated, fourteen met inclusion criteria and were analyzed using ranges of reported mean events and median cost data.
PRS applicants had more away rotations (2.4-2.42) than IM (.53), FM (.97) and GS (1.15) applicants. PRS applicants also submitted more residency applications (49.6-50) than IM (24.72-32.5), FM (19.7-22.5), and GS (37.64-43.6). PRS applicants attended more interviews (13.5-19) than IM (11.45-12.3), FM (11.59-12.3), and GS (12.6-12.72). Consequentially, total interview expenses were greater for PRS ($6073-$7125) than IM ($3457.55-$4098), FM ($2176-$3193.53), and GS ($5358.33-$6041). The total cost of the application was greater for PRS ($10708.33) than IM ($5781.87), FM ($5333.41), and GS ($7711.99).
In conclusion the financial burden is greatest for medical students pursuing a career in PRS. Having a more accurate estimate of the costs of the residency application process will allow these students to make more informed financial decisions.
