title: Common attributes of high/low performing general surgery programs as they relate to QE/CE pass rates.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  This comparative study aims to identify the differences between high and low performing programs as defined by their ABS board pass rates.
  
  
  METHODS
  We identified programs in the top 5% (TP) and lower 5% (LP) for 1st time QE/CE pass rates during the study period with resident and program related variables. All data was pooled and analyzed.
  
  
  RESULTS
  TP had more U.S. graduates, higher average USMLE Step 1/2 scores, and all residents took the exam within a year of graduation. TP were more likely to rotate at a Level 1 trauma center, spent more time with simulation, and had numerous fellowship programs. They ascribed their success to mock oral exams, mature curricula, and group educational activities. Graduates of TP chose general surgery twice as often (40% vs 19%).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Program related factors (Level 1 trauma, excellent didactics, higher number of fellowships, increased group educational activities, higher percentage of graduates into general surgery) are associated with TP. Our data suggests there may be modifiable program related variables that positively impact QE/CE pass rates.
authors.affiliation: University of Texas at Austin - Dell Medical School, Austin, TX, USA. Electronic address: bkendall07@gmail.com.
authors.forename: Brittany
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Bankhead-Kendall
authors.affiliation: St. Joseph Mercy Oakland, Pontiac, MI, USA.
authors.forename: Eliza
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Slama
authors.affiliation: Methodist Dallas Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
authors.forename: Michael S
authors.initials: MS
authors.lastname: Truitt
mesh_terms: D002568:Certification; D004521:Educational Measurement; D013502:General Surgery / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans; D007396:Internship and Residency; D014481:United States
keywords: Board pass rates; CE; Modifiable; Program factors; QE