Effectiveness of a Dedicated Rural General Surgery Residency Track: A 13-Year Analysis of the First ACGME Designated Rural Track.

Background: The shortage of general surgeons in rural America is well documented. The North Dakota community-based general surgery residency program initiated a unique approach to training for rural practice through a dedicated rural track. The rural track included 9 months of rotations in specialty rotations beneficial for rural practice.

Imaging Service Navigators: An Approach Toward More Efficient and Effective Communications.

Purpose: Many practices have implemented support services to assist radiologists with noninterpretive tasks; however, little research has been performed to assess the overall effect of these services. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a team of imaging service navigators (ISNs) incorporated into a practice on (1) number of communications, (2) time saved by radiologists, and (3) radiologist satisfaction with the service.

Methods: The numbers and types of reports dictated by radiologists were captured for 6-month periods before and after ISN implementation.

How to Prepare for the American Board of Surgery In-Training Examination (ABSITE): A Systematic Review.

Introduction: Performance on ABSITE is an important factor when monitoring resident progress. It predicts future performance and has lasting effects. Understanding the highest-yield preparation strategies can help residents in their study efforts and optimize performance.

Advanced Technology and the Rural Surgeon.

Advanced technology has resulted in major changes in surgery and medicine over the past three decades. There are many barriers to the adoption of advanced technologies, which can be more prevalent in rural hospitals and surgical practices. Despite barriers to implementation of new technologies in rural communities, many rural hospitals have endorsed and invested in these technologies for the benefit of the hospital and community.