• Amy K Hsu, Abtin Tabaee, and Mark S Persky.
• Department of Otorhinolaryngology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA.
• Laryngoscope. 2010 Jun 1; 120 (6): 1263-8.

Objectives/HypothesisTo assess the current state of mentorship in otolaryngology residency.Study DesignInternet-based anonymous survey of chief residents in otolaryngology residency.MethodsNonidentifying demographic information, career plans, and general questions about residency experience were queried. Participants were asked to rate their mentorship experience in general and specifically with regard to research, personal quality of life, and career preparation. Responses were scored using a five-point ordinal Likert scale, with higher scores representing more favorable responses.ResultsThe survey was completed by 47 (17.2%) respondents. Eighteen respondents (38%) were assigned an official faculty mentor, and 23 respondents (49%) were assigned a research mentor during their residency. Thirty-nine respondents (83%) reported receiving meaningful mentorship from faculty who were not officially assigned mentors. Overall, 18 respondents (38%) were neutral or not satisfied with the mentorship they received during residency. Statistically significant higher scores were noted for mentorship in career preparation (median, 4) versus mentorship in research (median, 4; P < .001) and resident quality of life (median, 3; P < .001). Lower scores were noted for availability of mentorship in preparation for a career in private practice versus academic medicine (median, 4 vs. 5; P < .001). Residents who were officially assigned mentors reported statistically significant higher scores with regard to satisfaction with the overall mentorship experience (median, 4 vs. 3; P = .05) and different aspects of mentorship in career preparation and research training.ConclusionsThe current study reveals variability in the mentorship experience in otolaryngology residency. Potential deficiencies may exist, including absence of formal mentorship in some residency programs. Increased attention to mentorship, especially with regard to research, career preparation, and quality of life may improve the overall residency experience.

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