ePoster
Presentation Description
Institution: Nepean Hospital - NSW, Australia
Purpose:
Plastic and reconstructive surgery (PRS) is a dynamic specialty, often underrepresented in medical education. This study aims to evaluate the understanding and exposure to PRS among medical students and junior doctors, identifying knowledge gaps and barriers to accessing PRS education.
Methodology:
A survey was conducted among medical students and junior doctors across multiple institutions in Australia. The questionnaire assessed participants’ self-reported understanding of PRS principles, awareness of subspecialties, exposure to PRS during training, and interest in pursuing PRS as a career. Quantitative data were collected and supplemented with open-ended feedback. Statistical analysis was performed to compare findings between groups and identify trends.
Results:
A total of 63 participants completed the survey (27 medical students, 36 junior doctors). Limited exposure to PRS was reported by 88.9% of medical students and 66.7% of junior doctors. Over 90% correctly identified burns, breast reconstruction, and aesthetic surgery as PRS subspecialties, but fewer than 70% recognized the role of plastic surgeons in craniofacial surgery. Greater clinical exposure correlated with increased interest in PRS as a career. Key barriers included insufficient PRS rotations, lack of mentorship, and limited integration of PRS topics into the core curriculum.
Conclusion:
Significant gaps in knowledge and exposure to PRS exist at a junior medical level. Addressing these through targeted educational initiatives, enhanced clinical opportunities, and mentorship programs could improve awareness and interest in PRS, ultimately bolstering the future workforce in this specialty.
Presenters
Authors
Authors
Dr Sarah Huang - , Mr Johnathan Lu -