A virtual faculty exchange program enhances dermatology resident education in the COVID-19 era: a survey study

Dermatol Online J. 2021 Mar 15;27(3):13030/qt1zt0q59g.

Abstract

One of the many consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic was the cancelation of the 2020 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting. This conference historically features lectures from world-renowned experts in all areas of dermatology, thus providing an important educational experience for dermatology residents. We hypothesized that the cancellation of this meeting produced a substantial educational loss for dermatology residents. To mitigate this impact, we developed a virtual faculty exchange program and surveyed dermatology residents' perspectives on its implementation. All participating residents found the virtual faculty exchange useful and would recommend it to other residents/programs. Moreover, all residents wanted to participate in more faculty exchange sessions as well as incorporate them throughout the academic year. Additionally, this educational program eliminated the potential cost of >$15,000 in flights and >24 metric tons of carbon emissions. This virtual faculty exchange program is a viable tool to enhance dermatology resident education in the COVID-19 era.

MeSH terms

  • Attitude of Health Personnel
  • COVID-19
  • Congresses as Topic*
  • Dermatology / education*
  • Faculty, Medical*
  • Humans
  • Internship and Residency*
  • Pandemics
  • Videoconferencing*