SS03 - The Evolution and Impact of the Society for Vascular Surgery Resident and Student Program

Objectives: There is an ongoing national shortage in the vascular surgery (VS) workforce. To increase interest in the specialty, the Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS) Resident and Student Outreach Commtitee developed a dedicated general surgery (GS) resident and medical student (MS) program at the Vascular Annual Meeting (VAM) and invested in a scholarship program to support attendee expenses. This study aims to assess the program's effectiveness, correlating recipient feedback with likelihood of matching into a VS training program.

Methods: Records related to the SVS annual meeting GS resident and MS program from 2013-2023 were reviewed focusing on attendee evaluations of the program. The program included a simulation session from 2013-2019. VS training program match rates among scholarship recipients were determined. Average match rate into VS was used to divide the data into below-average (BA) and above-average (AA) groups. Survey responses were based on a 5-point Likert scale and allowed for comments. Responses were divided into high-value, strongly favoring the activity (scores 4-5), and low-value (scores 1-3). The data from years of above to below average match rate were compared.

Results: The SVS awarded GS resident and MS 1,040 travel scholarships over 10 years. Overall, applicants had a 43% success rate in receiving a scholarship, with the annual number of applicants increasing, while the number of scholarships and match success rate significantly decreasing over time. The average match rate into VS among scholarship recipients was 50.2%, decreasing over time. (Figure) The survey response rate was 33%. During AA match rate years, evaluations for simulation allotted time and lectures were significantly more likely to be high value compared to BA years. Simulation content and residency fair consistently had the most favorable evaluations (>90% high value), and overall, the program had a consistently positive impact on recipients’ interest in VS (>90% high value). Trainees in the AA group were significantly more likely to provide positive comments(73% vs. 55% p< 0.001). (Table) Several recipients commented on the need for a dedicated space to interact with faculty and mentors and highlighted simulation as the standout aspect of the program.

Conclusions: The SVS annual meeting GS resident and MS program has a positive impact on interest in VS, with more than 50% of scholarship recipients matching into the field. The quality of the program and the number of scholarships correlate with VS match rates. Additional investments in similar programs could help close the gap in the workforce.