The History of the Association of Academic Chairmen in Plastic Surgery: 1990 to 2004

The Association of Academic Chairmen in Plastic Surgery was founded in 1985 to provide a forum for program directors in plastic surgery to discuss issues of common interest. The formation and early years of the organization have already been discussed. From 1985 to 2004, the organization continued to mature and address issues of interest to the training of plastic surgeons. All available documents related to the development and functioning of the Association of Academic Chairmen in Plastic Surgery were reviewed. Discussions within the organization spawned the development and refinement of the integrated and coordinated models for plastic surgery resident education. Defined curricula for integrated programs have been developed to complement those developed for independent programs. The meetings of the organization have provided forums for the discussion of key issues relevant to plastic surgery program directors, including the funding of graduate medical education, the desirability of departmental status, training in aesthetic surgery, the "Gen X" resident, and workforce issues. They have also provided updates on interspecialty issues that have developed with otolaryngology and dermatology. In addition, the meetings have provided information to aid program directors in dealing the changing Residency Review Committee requirements including the competencies and work hours. The Association of Academic Chairmen in Plastic Surgery continued to mature from 1985 and 2004 and served as a vital resource for program directors in plastic surgery.