Social media's impact on patient provider choice.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate if social media (SM) impacts a patient's provider choice in the field of reproductive endocrinology and infertility (REI). METHODS: This was a survey-based study completed in July 2022. A survey link was distributed using Amazon Mechanical Turk, which directed participants to a Qualtrics-based survey. Participants were 18-50 years old. The primary outcome was to identify the preferred method for finding a REI provider based on time spent on SM (< 1 h, 1-3 h, 3 + h). RESULTS: A total of 336 responses were analyzed. Fifty-four percent of respondents used SM < 1 h, 33.33% used 1-3 h, and 12.80% used 3 + h. The majority (69.05%) of respondents stated that they would seek out a REI provider/clinic if they had difficulty conceiving. Most respondents identified asking their primary care physician (44.64%) as the primary means for finding an REI provider/clinic and did not prefer to use SM. Although Facebook (< 1 h: 30.94%, 1-3 h: 31.25%, 3 + h: 27.91%) was the most utilized SM platform among respondents, YouTube was the preferred SM platform if respondents were to follow a REI clinic with a preference for posts focusing on education (< 1 h: 55.68%, 1-3 h: 43.12%, 3 + h: 58.14%) or stress management (< 1 h: 17.61%, 1-3 h: 29.36%, 3 + h: 20.94%). CONCLUSION: Most respondents utilize traditional methods when choosing their REI provider or clinic and would not utilize SM. However, SM, primarily through YouTube, may be helpful for educating infertility patients and providing support and stress relief while they undergo treatment.

A survey on the perception of the specialty of Endocrinology and Nutrition among students preparing for the entrance exam for medical specialty training in Spain.

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: Previous studies have shown that there is decreasing interest in E&N among medical students. The aim of our study was to evaluate the perception of E&N among a sample of medical students. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We surveyed 2252 students prior to taking the exam that allows access to specialised training in Spain. RESULTS: Overall, 9.9% (222 participants) would probably choose E&N. The most positive aspects in includes of the specialty are its logical pathophysiological basis (54%) and that the work is dynamic and varied (27%), while the least attractive aspects are the few interventional techniques. The parts of the specialty that most attract students are hypothalamic-pituitary disease and diabetes mellitus. CONCLUSIONS: The proportion of candidates who want to study E&N as their first choice is adequate in relation to the number of places available.

Perception of training and job perspectives among final-year residents in the specialty of Endocrinology and Nutrition.

INTRODUCTION: The medical specialisation model in Spain is carried out in the context of specialised health training, through the residency programme. The aim of the study is to analyse, by an anonymous survey, the opinion on three aspects among final-year residents in Endocrinology and Nutrition (E&N): self-assessment of the knowledge acquired, working prospects, care and training consequences arising from the pandemic COVID-19. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cross-sectional observational study using a voluntary and anonymous online survey, shared among final-year national interns in the last year of the E&N programme, carried out between June-July 2021. RESULTS: 51 responses were obtained, 66% of the fourth-year residents. Overall perception of their knowledge was 7.8 out of 10. Most external rotations were in thyroid and nutrition areas. A total of 96.1% residents, carried out some activity associated with COVID-19, with a training deterioration of 6.9 out of 10. 88.2% cancelled their rotations and 74.5% extended their working schedule. The average negative emotional impact was 7.3 out of 10. 80.4% would like to continue in their training hospital, remaining 45.1%. 56.7% have an employment contract of less than 6 months, most of them practising Endocrinology. CONCLUSION: The perception of the knowledge acquired during the training period is a "B". Residents consider that the pandemic has led to a worsening of their training, generating a negative emotional impact. Employment outlook after completing the residency can be summarised as: temporality, practice of Endocrinology and interhospital mobility.

Expectativas discentes quanto ao conhecimento teórico-prático oferecido pela liga de endocrinologia e diabetologia / Student expectations regarding the theoretical-practical knowledge offered by the league of endocrinology and diabetology / Expectativas de los estudiantes en relación con los conocimientos teórico-prácticos que ofrece la liga de endocrinología y diabetología

Introdução: As ligas acadêmicas são fundamentais para a formação generalista de discentes de medicina, além de permitirem o contato prévio com conteúdo teórico-prático de determinadas especialidades médicas. Objetivo: Identificar a avaliação e a expectativa dos discentes acerca do trabalho da liga acadêmica de Diabetologia e Endocrinologia da Faculdade de Medicina de Catanduva, e estabelecer novas ideias para os próximos diretores que visem melhorias para o ensino de temas relacionados à essa especialidade na área de ensino, pesquisa e extensão. Método: Trata-se de um estudo descritivo e avaliativo, desenvolvido por meio de questionário on-line. Resultados: Foram obtidas 27 respostas de alunos e ex-alunos de ligas acadêmicas, com idade entre 18 e 24 anos, de ambos os sexos. Resultados: De modo geral, foi demonstrado o interesse em aprender e aprofundar conhecimentos sobre hormônios e o funcionamento do organismo humano. Sobre "o que acharam do aprendizado teórico oferecido pela liga de endocrinologia durante o ano em que participaram", 77,8% responderam que foi "bom", 22,2% "regular" e nenhuma resposta para o quesito "ruim". Em relação ao aprendizado prático, a maioria, sendo 85,2%, respondeu que foi "bom", 14,8% "regular" e nenhuma resposta para a alternativa "ruim". Em sua maioria, as respostas foram positivas quanto à participação das ligas nos ambulatórios de especialidades. Assim, pode-se concluir que a liga acadêmica contribui para o aprofundamento e contato com várias especialidades, auxiliando na formação médica. Conclusão: As ligas acadêmicas se caracterizam por canais que possibilitam oferecer e estimular o desenvolvimento de conhecimentos teórico-práticos sobre diferentes temas, melhorar a comunicação e a interrelação com as diferentes equipes, pacientes e a comunidade, além de auxiliarem os graduandos a obterem uma visão mais ampla do processo saúde-doença.

Introduction: Academic leagues are of fundamental importance for the generalist training of medical students, in addition to allowing prior contact with theoretical and practical content of certain medical specialties. Objective: To identify the evaluation and expectation of students about the work of the academic league of Diabetology and Endocrinology of theFaculty of Medicine of Catanduva, and establish new ideas for the next directors aimed at improving the teaching of topics related to this specialty in the area of teaching, research and extension. Method: This is a descriptive and evaluative study, developed through an online questionnaire. Results: We obtained 27 responses from students and alumni of academic leagues, aged between 18 and 24 years, of both sexes. Results: In general, the interest in learning and deepening knowledge about hormones and the functioning of the human body was demonstrated. About 'what they thought of the theoretical learning offered by the endocrinology league during the year in which they participated', 77.8% answered that it was good``, 22.2% regular`` and no response to the bad``. In relation to practical learning, the majority, being 85.2%, answered that it was good``, 14.8% regular`` and no response to the bad```. Most of the responses were positive regarding the participation of the leagues in the specialty outpatient clinics. Thus, It can be concluded that the academic league contributes to the deepening and contact with various specialties, assisting in medical training. Conclusion: Academic leagues are characterized by channels that make it possible to offer and stimulate the development of theoreticalto improve communication and interrelationship with different teams, patients and the community, as well as helping the undergraduates to obtain a broader view of the health-disease process.

Introducción: Las ligas académicas son fundamentales para la formación general de los estudiantes de medicina, además de permitir un contacto previo con contenidos teóricos y prácticos de determinadas especialidades médicas. Objetivo: Identificar la evaluación y expectativas de los estudiantes sobre el trabajo de la liga académica de Diabetología y Endocrinología de la Faculdade de Medicina de Catanduva, y establecer nuevas ideas para los próximos directores que apunten a mejorar la enseñanza de temas afines a esta especialidad en el área de docencia, investigación y extensión. Método: Este es un estudio descriptivo y evaluativo, desarrollado a través de un cuestionario en línea. Resultados: Se obtuvieron 27 respuestas de alumnos y ex alumnos de ligas académicas, con edades entre 18 y 24 años, de ambos os sexos. Resultados: En general se demostró interés por aprender y profundizar conocimientos sobre las hormonas y el funcionamiento del organismo humano. En cuanto a "lo que les pareció el aprendizaje teórico que les ofreció la liga de endocrinología durante el año que participaron", el 77,8% respondió que fue "bueno", el 22,2% "regular" y no respondió a la pregunta "malo" . En cuanto al aprendizaje práctico, la mayoría, el 85,2%, respondió que era "bueno", el 14,8% "regular" y ninguna respuesta para la alternativa "malo". La mayoría de las respuestas fueron positivas en cuanto a la participación de las ligas en las consultas externas de especialidades. Así, se puede concluir que la liga académica contribuye a la profundización y contacto con diversas especialidades, auxiliando en la formación médica. Conclusión: Las ligas académicas se caracterizan por tener canales que permiten ofrecer y fomentar el desarrollo de conocimientos teórico-prácticos sobre diferentes temas, mejorar la comunicación e interrelación con los diferentes equipos, pacientes y la comunidad, además de ayudar a los estudiantes de pregrado a obtener una visión más amplia. alcance del proceso salud-enfermedad.

Training for the future.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The aim of this study was to review the evolving field of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) and describe the current and future challenges REI fellowship programmes in the United States are facing. RECENT FINDINGS: The field of REI continues to rapidly evolve largely due to the tremendous advances within the assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). Alongside this evolution, there is a lessening emphasis on graduates being proficient in all aspects of REI. Ongoing revisions to the REI fellowship structure reflect these changes in technology and contemporary practice patterns. SUMMARY: REI is a rapidly evolving field and fellowship training is continually adapting to meet the changing landscape of our field.

Teaming: learning, competing, and innovating in the world of reproductive medicine.

Healthcare teams must be deliberately cultivated to reach their full potential. Shifting focus from individual performance to a team's collective competence allows for targeted and evidence-based interventions that support teamwork and improve patient outcomes. We reviewed essential concepts drawn from team science and explored the practical applications of teaming. Reproductive endocrinology and infertility healthcare providers play a pivotal role by teaching, modeling, and fostering teaming attitudes and behaviors. Through teaming, we can maximize our teams' ability to learn, innovate, compete with other teams, and thrive in today's healthcare environment.

Replacing a Veterinary Physiology Endocrinology Lecture with a Blended Learning Approach Using an Everyday Analogy.

Understanding scientific concepts and processes is critical for veterinary education. This article outlines the impact of blended learning and the use of an analogy on student understanding of the hypothalamic-pituitary-target gland axis over a three-year period. The first-year veterinary physiology course at our institution was modified to incorporate a blended learning approach. An analogy centered around a fast-food restaurant was introduced via an animated video to explain key concepts using an online module. Students completed the module on their own time and class time was optional for asking questions or obtaining clarification as needed. Learning was assessed using the same set of multiple-choice exam questions (MCQs). As hypothesized, students using the online module performed equally well (significantly better for those in the lower quartile) on three summative MCQs to those who received the same information delivered by traditional lecture. Student feedback identified positive aspects regarding blended learning using the analogy, including dynamic visuals, ability to work at their own time and pace, and ease of repeating information. Students cited lack of discipline and poor time management as obstacles to completing the module. Changing the anatomy and physiology of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland from static images and text to an animated video significantly improved student's preference for the blended learning approach. Blended learning and the analogy was preferred by 47% of students over the traditional lecture format (21% preferred traditional lecture and 32% were indifferent) and it was more effective in helping students master this important physiological concept.

Outcomes of embryo transfers performed by Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility fellows vs. faculty: an 11-year retrospective review.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) and live birth rate (LBR) of embryo transfer episodes (ETEs) performed by Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility fellows vs. those of ETEs performed by faculty physicians. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort analysis. SETTING: Academic reproductive endocrinology and infertility practice. PATIENT(S): In total, 3,073 ETEs for 1,488 unique patients were performed by fellows or faculty physicians between January 2009 and January 2020. INTERVENTION(S): None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Clinical pregnancy rate and LBR. RESULT(S): Fifteen fellows performed 1,225 (39.9%) of 3,073 ETEs after completing 30 mock transfers. On comparing outcomes among fellowship years (FY1, FY2, and FY3), CPR (44.1% vs. 43.2% vs. 45.7%, respectively, P = .83) and LBR (39.1% vs. 38.1% vs. 38.4%, respectively, P = .97) were not significantly different. Fellowship year 1 fellows' initial 30 ETEs vs. all the remaining FY1 ETEs had a significantly higher CPR (48.1% vs. 40.5%, respectively, P = .030) and LBR (45.4% vs. 34.3%, respectively, P = .001). There were no significant differences between faculty versus fellow ETEs in terms of CPR (43.0% vs. 45.0%, respectively, P = .30) or LBR (37.3% vs. 39.8%, respectively, P = .16), even after adjusting for patient age, body mass index, primary infertility diagnosis, autologous vs. donor oocyte, fresh vs. frozen embryo, number of embryos transferred, type of transfer catheter, and year of transfer (P = .32 for CPR, P = .22 for LBR). CONCLUSION(S): Appropriately trained FY1 fellows had success rates maintained throughout all FYs. There were no significant differences in clinical outcomes between fellow- and faculty-performed transfers. These data demonstrated that allowing fellows to perform live embryo transfers is not detrimental to clinical outcomes.

Continued Supervision for the Common Pediatric Subspecialty Entrustable Professional Activities May Be Needed Following Fellowship Graduation.

PURPOSE: Entrustable professional activities (EPAs) are one approach to competency-based medical education (CBME), and 7 EPAs have been developed that address content relevant for all pediatric subspecialties. However, it is not known what level of supervision fellowship program directors (FPDs) deem necessary for graduation. The Subspecialty Pediatrics Investigator Network (SPIN) investigated FPD perceptions of the minimum level of supervision required for a trainee to successfully graduate. METHOD: In 2017, SPIN surveyed all FPDs of accredited fellowships for 14 subspecialties. For each EPA, the minimum supervision level for graduation (ranging from observation only to unsupervised practice) was set such that no more than 20% of FPDs would accept a lower level. RESULTS: The survey response rate was 82% (660/802). The minimum supervision level for graduation varied across the 7 EPAs from 2 (direct) to 4 (indirect for complex cases), with significant differences between EPAs. The percentage of FPDs desiring a lower minimum supervision level ranged from 3% to 17%. Compared with the 4 nonclinical EPAs (quality improvement, management, lead within the profession, scholarship), the 3 clinical EPAs (consultation, handover, lead a team) had higher minimum supervision graduation levels (P < .001), with less likelihood that an FPD would graduate a learner below their minimum level (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Consensus among FPDs across all pediatric subspecialties demonstrates the potential need for ongoing supervision for graduates in all 7 common pediatric subspecialty EPAs after fellowship. As CBME programs are implemented, processes and infrastructure to support new graduates are important considerations for leaders.

Pediatric Endocrinology: Perspectives of Pediatric Endocrinologists Regarding Career Choice and Recruitment of Trainees.

OBJECTIVES: To examine main factors that influence the decision to choose pediatric endocrinology as a career among pediatric endocrinologists and assess their work satisfaction or stress level and suggested strategies to increase interest in subspecialty training in pediatric endocrinology. METHODS: A workforce survey was distributed among 1470 members of the Pediatric Endocrine Society. RESULTS: The response rate was 37.4%, with 550 members responding. The most common reasons for the respondents choosing pediatric endocrinology were intellectual stimulation (79%), exposure to endocrinology during residency (57%) or medical school (43%), and ability to establish relationships with patients with chronic disorders (54%). Of the respondents, 97% considered intellectual stimulation as the most favorable aspect of the specialty, and 84% considered financial compensation as the most unfavorable aspect of pediatric endocrinology. Majority (77%) were satisfied or very satisfied with their work environment. The mean work-related stress score (0 [none] to 10 [worst]) was 5.7, standard deviation was 2.1, and median was 6 (Q1, Q3: 4, 7). Increased financial compensation for the services and loan payment or forgiveness option were the top strategies suggested to enhance interest among residents for training in the subspecialty. One third (37%) felt that reducing the duration of the fellowship to 2 years would increase interest in training in pediatric endocrinology. CONCLUSION: The pediatric endocrinologists reported overall excellent career satisfaction, indicating the potential to attract high-quality doctors to the specialty. Improving reimbursement and loan forgiveness were the top strategies suggested for increasing interest in subspecialty training in pediatric endocrinology.

Perceptions and lessons from web-based interviews for the reproductive endocrinology and infertility fellowship application cycle.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the experience and perceptions of reproductive endocrinology and infertility fellowship applicants and program directors (PDs) regarding the current and future use of web-based interviews (WBIs). DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. SETTING: Nationwide cohort. PATIENT(S): Reproductive endocrinology and infertility fellowship applicants and PDs participating in the 2020 application cycle. INTERVENTION(S): Anonymous survey sent to applicants and PDs. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Descriptive study evaluating the experience and satisfaction of applicants and PDs with WBIs. RESULT(S): Forty-six percent of applicants and eligible PDs responded to our survey. Most applicants and PDs responded that WBIs were adequate for conveying a sense of a program's strengths, faculty, diversity, clinical training, and research opportunities, but less than half responded that WBIs were adequate in providing a sense of the program's clinical site and facilities. After WBIs, both applicants (73%) and PDs (86%) were able to rank with confidence. The cost of WBIs was significantly lower for both applicants (median: $100) and programs (median: $100) than the costs previously reported for in-person interviews. The applicants interviewed at more programs than they would have if the interviews were on-site, and Zoom was the highest rated platform used. Most applicants and PDs responded that WBIs were an adequate substitute, and that they should continue after the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Furthermore, most of the PDs were planning to continue to use WBIs in some capacity. CONCLUSION(S): Both applicants and PDs had favorable experiences with and perceptions of WBIs, and most endorse the continued use of this interview modality. The findings of this study can help guide and optimize future WBI practices.

Pilares para la excelencia en las unidades de nutrición. Formación / Pillars for excellence in nutrition support units. Training

Pocas áreas dentro de la medicina actual han experimentado en los últimos años un cambio y una evolución como los de la nutrición clínica. Actualmente, el 98 % de los servicios de endocrinología y nutrición en los hospitales de 500 o más camas incorporan una unidad de nutrición clínica y dietética (UNCyD). La formación de los profesionales que integran estas unidades ha sido y será un punto clave para continuar su desarrollo hacia la excelencia. En los estudios del Grado de Medicina, a pesar de su relevancia, la formación en nutrición es actualmente escasa y heterogénea, y necesita una mejora que puede venir de la mano de las propuestas de la ESPEN recientemente publicadas. En el caso de los médicos especialistas en endocrinología y nutrición, las sucesivas adaptaciones del programa docente establecido por la Comisión Nacional de la especialidad y los esfuerzos en formación liderados por la SEEN han permitido una importante mejoría. En la farmacia hospitalaria existe un curriculum de formación en nutrición que podría actualizarse. La formación universitaria en nutrición dentro del Grado de Enfermería también es heterogénea. Los estudios más relacionados, como el Grado de Nutrición Humana y Dietética, Técnico Superior en Dietética, Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos o Bromatología, abordan fundamentalmente temas relacionados con la dietética. Se echa de menos un esfuerzo de coordinación para definir el papel de los integrantes de estas UNCyD multidisciplinares también en lo referente a su formación

Few areas of current medicine have undergone change and evolution in recent years such as those of clinical nutrition. Currently, 98 % of endocrinology and nutrition departments in hospitals with 500 or more beds incorporate a clinical nutrition and dietetics Unit. The training of the professionals that integrate these units has been and will be a key point in their ongoing development towards excellence. In medicine degree studies, despite its relevance, nutrition training is currently scarce and heterogeneous, and needs improvement, which may come hand in hand with the recently published ESPEN proposals. In the case of doctors specializing in endocrinology and nutrition, the adaptations in the teaching program established by the National Commission for this specialty, and the training efforts led by the SEEN have allowed significant improvement. In hospital pharmacy studies there is a nutrition training curriculum that could be updated. University training in nutrition within the nursing degree is also heterogeneous. The most related studies such as the Degree of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, Technician in Dietetics, Food Science and Technology or Bromatology fundamentally address issues related to dietetics. There is a lack of coordinated effort to define the role of the members of these multidisciplinary UNCyDs, also in regard to their training