Analysis of surgical oncology-educator perspectives for the development of a contemporary curriculum for the outpatient learning environment

Abstract

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this study was to perform a targeted needs assessment of surgical oncology stakeholders engaged in surgical education of students and trainees. The aim was to determine the appropriate elements of a formal curriculum to be administered to students and residents rotating in the outpatient surgical oncology setting. Methods A 10-min survey was sent to surgical oncologists around the country that are a part of the Society of Surgical Oncology (SSO). Data obtained from this survey were analyzed to distinctly identify limitations to education in Surgical Oncology and will allow us to determine which educational goals to prioritize in a curriculum. Results 189 responses to the needs assessment were received (7% response rate). Most surgeons were in academic practice (77%) and felt that trainees were not fully prepared for an outpatient clinic (57%) and did endorse the need for a curriculum (74%). Barriers identified to teaching and learning included time, abbreviated contact with learners and the volume of patients. Higher yield topics to be included in a future curriculum were identified. More than half of respondents felt that a curriculum could improve feedback, NBME Surgery Subject Exam scores, resident ABSITE scores and patient comfort. Conclusions This study represents a novel effort in assessing the unique needs of surgical oncologists within the outpatient learning environment. Building upon the insights gleaned from our survey, the next phase will entail conducting focus groups with respondents to delve deeper into the intricacies of designing an outpatient surgical oncology clinical curriculum tailored for medical students and junior residents. By fostering collaborative discussions among stakeholders, we aim to refine curriculum components in an iterative process and address identified gaps in educational resources and ultimately improve the quality of patient care in the outpatient setting.