Adaptations of Dermatology Residency Programs to Changes in Medical Education Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic: Virtual Opportunities and Social Media
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Keywords
dermatology, residency, social media, COVID-19, virtual, medical education, twitter, instagram, facebook, dermatology interest group
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a drastic change in the 2020-2021 residency application cycle, limiting how programs interact with applicants.
Objective: To describe how dermatology residency programs have adapted by developing social media platforms and virtual opportunities.
Methods: A list of participating programs was obtained from the Electronic Residency Application Service. Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and websites were reviewed for virtual opportunities. The Visiting Student Application Service (VSAS) and the Dermatology Interest Group Association (DIGA) website were reviewed for virtual opportunities.
Results: Of the 133 programs, 74 social media accounts were created. Twenty-two programs have Twitter, 27 have Instagram, and 25 have Facebook accounts. Virtual open houses were advertised on 27 program webpages. Eight virtual sub-internships were on VSAS. Eighty virtual meet and greets and 27 virtual electives were advertised on the DIGA website.
Limitations: Considering the ongoing application cycle and the growth of social media usage, the numbers presented may not represent the numbers on the date of publication.
Conclusion: Dermatology residency programs have adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic by developing social media platforms and virtual opportunities. There is an underutilization of social media by programs. Programs are working with the DIGA to distribute information about virtual opportunities.
References
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