Fellowship training in rhinology: American Rhinologic Society survey of U.S. graduates

Abstract

Background: The past 5 years have witnessed the introduction of numerous rhinology fellowships that may have altered the education of individuals electing to pursue postgraduate training. The objective of this study was to evaluate the rhinology fellowship experience and its possible impact on current practice patterns of U.S. fellowship-trained rhinologists.

Methods: A 27-item web-based survey (www.surveymonkey.com) was conducted under the purview of the American Rhinologic Society (ARS) Fellowship Committee between November 2009 and January 2010. The target group included 112 rhinologists who completed fellowship training between 1990 and 2009.

Results: A total of 62 fellows (55.4%) completed the survey. The respondents represented all regions of the country, with most common being southeast (25%) and south central (18%). The most common type of clinical practice was academic in 68%, followed by single-specialty group (19%), multispecialty (6.5%), and solo practice (6.5%). Rhinology entailed >75% and 50% to 75% of clinical practice for 61% and 24% of respondents, respectively. The primary reasons for selecting a rhinology fellowship were career in academics (64%) and interest in rhinologic procedures (31%). Overall fellowship experience was rated as excellent and good by 84% and 16%, respectively. The mean number of rhinologic procedures during fellowship were >200 in 59% and 151 to 200 in 27% of respondents. Allergy training exposure was reported by 59% during training. Clinical and basic science research exposure was rated as excellent or good by 90% and 44%, respectively.

Conclusion: The rhinology fellowship experience to date appears to be well-regarded by majority of respondents. Future dialogue should focus on identification of deficiencies in the current rhinology fellowship educational process.