The Effect of an Organ Procurement Experience on Preclinical Medical Student Perceptions of Transplant Surgery.

Transplant surgery is a male-dominant specialty with high burnout rates. There are currently limited data regarding how programs can attract a diverse applicant pool and improve trainees' quality of life. This study evaluated the effect of an Organ Procurement Experience elective on preclinical medical students' perceptions of transplant surgery in a prospective, longitudinal study. Preclinical medical students were anonymously surveyed before and after attending a deceased donor organ procurement. Questions focused on the following themes: Personal Beliefs, Personal/Professional Life, Diversity, and Gender Equality. Responses were rated on a 5-point Likert scale. 99 and 45 students completed pre/post-procurement survey, respectively. Post-procurement responses demonstrated increased education about the field (2.1/5 vs. 3.89/5, P < 0.001) and perceptions of the personalities and collegiality between surgeons (3.06/5 vs. 3.73/5, P = 0.005). Post-procurement, women were less likely to feel that female transplant surgeons are treated differently (3.98 to 3.45, P < 0.017). Post-procurement, 19% agreed that transplant surgeons have a high quality of life. 1% of respondents felt the current gender distribution in transplant surgery is satisfactory. The Procurement Experience significantly improved preclinical students' perceptions of the field. However, there remains a strong concern about quality of life and gender diversity within the field. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.