Semi-annual dinners for medical students to interact with community obstetricians-gynecologists

Abstract

Objective: To describe a semi-annual dinner meeting between medical students and community obstetrician-gynecologists to aid students considering careers in obstetrics and gynecology.

Study design: Between 2003 and 2008, third-year students were invited to a semi-annual dinner by the department chair at his home, with three community American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists fellows. Students wrote 12 questions beforehand, with 4 assigned to each fellow. Fellows rotated to three dinner tables to speak with each student. An anonymous questionnaire about the value of the experience was completed by students at the end of the dinner and shortly before graduation.

Results: Seventy students attended at least 1 dinner; two thirds attended twice. Discussions dealt with lifestyle, work responsibilities and malpractice. Enthusiasm of the fellows was rated highly; none was viewed as neutral or discouraging. Students agreed their understanding of daily practices of women's healthcare providers was strengthened by attending the dinner. The same questionnaire, administered before graduation, confirmed the dinner added more insight, regardless of whether students matched in obstetrics and gynecology or another field.

Conclusion: The dinners were a useful tool for students to gain a better perspective about lifestyles and work expectations of obstetrician-gynecologists.