Impact and Implementation of Plastic Surgery Interest Groups: National Survey of Plastic Surgery Interest Group Leadership

Background: Plastic surgery interest groups (PSIGs) provide an invaluable opportunity to enhance medical students’ exposure to and knowledge of plastic surgery. Despite this, there have been no studies that provide information on the formation of these groups as well as the aspects that make for a productive PSIG. Methods: An anonymous survey was distributed by email via RedCAP to US medical students who hold leadership positions within their medical school's PSIG. Participants were asked baseline medical school information, the structure of their interest group, and perspectives on the most impactful and challenging components of their interest group. Results: Sixteen members (27.6%) of PSIG leadership completed the survey. Eighty percent reported having a membership of greater than 20 students. Fifty percent of the PSIGs were led by advisors who were medical school or hospital-affiliated faculty. Sixty-nine percent of groups were allocated a predetermined amount of money to fund activities and events throughout the academic year. Based on member feedback, groups reported that interactions with plastic surgery faculty, mentorship opportunities, and research opportunities were the most impactful and beneficial components of their PSIG. Forty-four percent reported that the biggest challenge faced by their PSIG was having a small active member group, followed by a lack of funding. Conclusion: Our study provides an in-depth look at the current structure and impact of PSIGs in the United States. It also provides a framework for medical schools that wish to start a PSIG and suggestions for established groups who wish to revitalize their PSIG structure.