Impact of funded global health electives on career development of residents in a U.S. obstetrics and gynecology program: a cross-sectional survey

BACKGROUND: The aims of this study were to identify factors influencing participation in global health electives during residency and to understand the career impact of global health electives on alumni of an Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN) residency program. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional, web-based survey of alumni of a residency program in the United States. RESULTS: The response rate was 49%. Out of 73 respondents, 29 (39.7%) had completed a global health elective. Availability of funds and flexibility of elective time were the main enabling factors for participating in global health electives. Most participants of global health electives in residency reported a positive impact on their competence in domestic and global women’s health and on their career choices. Completing a global health elective in residency was associated with career work in global health and/or local health disparities (OR 4.62 (95% CI: 1.20–17.87)). CONCLUSION: Global health electives are important in the career development of residents. To foster OB/GYNs that continue global health and health disparities work, OB/GYN programs should give trainees the opportunity to participate in funded global health electives.