Prolonged Impact of COVID-19 on Job Prospects and Training for Pediatric Gastroenterology Fellows in North America

As the COVID-19 pandemic persisted into the 2020 to 2021 academic year, there was a continued effect on graduate medical education trainees and graduating trainee job attainment. Our survey aims to investigate how the pandemic has continued to affect job search and attainment for pediatric gastroenterology fellows as well as to re-evaluate the pandemic’s impact on pediatric gastroenterology fellow educational experiences. METHODS: An anonymous survey was distributed to all North American pediatric gastroenterology fellows from May to June 2021. Survey questions included topics related to job search and fellowship training and were tailored to respondent year of training. RESULTS: Of 453 pediatric gastroenterology fellows in the 2020 to 2021 academic year, 158 fellows (35%) responded to the survey. Of graduating fellow respondents with job contracts, 74% reported willingness to make compromises in their job search, 76% reported accepting academic positions that were primary clinical, and 42% estimated staying at their accepted job for less than 5 years. When asked about the impact of COVID-19 on various aspects of fellowship education, a negative impact was reported in the following areas: 76% in research, 94% in clinical experience, 73% in procedural skills, and 84% in didactics. CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 pandemic continues to make a significant impact on pediatric gastroenterology fellowship education and the job attainment process. Regarding accepted job positions, we found substantial willingness to compromise, a shorter duration to stay at the job than expected, and minimal research focus. This raises concern regarding job preparedness and satisfaction as fellows complete their medical training.