Introduction
Otolaryngology is a surgical subspecialty dedicated to addressing conditions of the head and neck. It is no surprise that matching into surgical subspecialties such as otolaryngology-head and neck surgery increases in competitiveness each year.1 The data indicate that, on average, students perform at higher levels each year compared to previous years.2,3 This increase in competitiveness prompts the development of resources including specialty-specific information to be made more readily available to students, which can in turn allow students to become more “successful residents”.4 One of the critical determinants for those considering a career in otolaryngology is the availability of resources for medical students as they prepare their residency applications. Additionally, there exists a prevalent lack of comprehensive exposure to the field, partly due to limited course material within the standard medical curriculum. In addition, these gaps in resources and exposure are notable among medical students who may lack direct access to affiliated otolaryngology programs (“home programs”).5,6
Despite these proposed barriers, resources are available to assist students in navigating a career in otolaryngology.7 This review seeks to highlight and compile essential otolaryngology organizations and their resources in the United States.
Through an analysis of these organizations, this study reveals opportunities available to medical students through organizations such as research opportunities, conference scholarships, mentorship programs, and avenues for leadership roles. The central objective is to underscore resources capable of providing medical students with the necessary skills and experiences vital for pursuing an otolaryngology residency.8,9
Included in the analysis is a total of eleven national organizations highlighted by the researchers that met specific selection criteria.
Methodology
The data used in this analysis was collected in October of 2023.
Selection Criteria
In the initial phase of this research, a comprehensive investigation was conducted to identify organizations relevant to otolaryngology. 147 organizations were identified by the University of North Texas Health Science Center (UNTHSC) Gibson Library while an additional 30 organizations were identified by four independent researchers in a thorough online search. The combination of these sources resulted in a preliminary list of 177 organizations. Three duplicates were eliminated, thus decreasing the list to 174 unique organizations.
The next stage of screening was predicated on the relevance of these organizations to the field of otolaryngology. Three independent researchers reviewed all sources and excluded 129 entities due to not being specific to the field of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery.
A set of precise criteria was then established; specifically, the organizations were required to (1) permit enrollment of physicians, (2) conduct annual meetings, (3) operate on a national level, and (4) permit involvement of medical students. This selection process yielded thirteen organizations that met the specified criteria. However, upon further scrutiny, two additional organizations were identified and subsequently removed, finalizing a cohort of eleven national otolaryngology-head and neck surgery organizations for comprehensive evaluation.
Data Collection
The websites of all eleven national organizations were reviewed independently by the researchers. Information related to subspeciality, osteopathic and allopathic student admission, research opportunities for medical students, mentorships for medical students, cost to join the national organization, cost to attend the annual meeting, leadership opportunities, scholarships available, and educational materials offered were gathered, and organized (Table 1). Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data collected.
Results
Resources Available for Allopathic and Osteopathic Students through Professional Organizations
Organization Focuses on Disciplines or Subspecialties Within Otolaryngology
Approximately 46% (n=5) of the organizations included in the review (n=11) are dedicated to subspecialties or specific focuses within the field of otolaryngology. These organizational focuses included Rhinology,10 Pediatrics,11 Laryngology,12 Dysphagia,13 and Craniofacial Reconstruction.14
Organization Allows Both MD and DO Student Membership
A concern that medical students express is uncertainty whether organizations allow osteopathic student involvement. 100% of organizations included in the review (n=11) allowed open enrollment to both allopathic and osteopathic medical students.
Medical Student Cost to Join Organization
Membership fees influence medical students’ decisions regarding joining organizations, attending conferences, and accessing learning materials. 55% (n=6) of the organizations in this review (n=11) have listed registration fees for joining their organization on their websites (Table 1).15–20 The average cost of registering as a member for organizations that charge medical students a registration fee was $57. Five (45%) of the organizations included in the review do not charge medical students to register as a member if specific criteria are met.
Annual Meeting, Research Presented at Annual Meeting, and Medical Students Can Present at Annual Meeting
100% (n=11) of the reviewed organizations have annual meetings that medical students can attend. Of the organizations conducting annual meetings included in this review, ten allow medical students to present research (Table 1).
Medical Student Registration Fee for Annual Meetings
Approximately 82% (n=9) of the reviewed organizations (n=11) charge a registration fee for their annual conference (Table 1).10–20 Including the 18% (n=2) of conferences that provide free meeting registration for students, the average cost for a medical student to register for an annual meeting is between $109.64 and $152.73. This range is attributed to certain conferences offering students the option to register for specific conference days, rather than the entire multi-day event.
Annual Meeting Registration / Travel Scholarships Available for Medical Students
Conference travel expenses can significantly impact students depending on their proximity to the conference venue and whether their medical school provides financial support for conference travel. Among the organizations reviewed (n=11), only two offer a registration or travel scholarship to medical students (Table 2).21,22 These scholarships are typically awarded on an application-based process, requiring the completion of a detailed application, and meeting specific criteria, such as submitting a first-author abstract.22
Mentorship Available Within the Organization for Medical Students
For numerous medical students, networking with established residents and physicians in their fields can pose a daunting and significant challenge. Two of the eleven organizations reviewed (18%) have dedicated mentorship programs available to medical students.23,24 These initiatives serve as invaluable platforms for students to connect with mentors who can offer guidance and support through a demanding application process (Table 3).
Leadership Opportunities Available for Medical Students
Another opportunity that students seek out during medical school is leadership. Only one of the included organizations offered leadership opportunities to medical students. The National Otolaryngology Interest Group (NOIG) offers leadership opportunities at a to medical students. NOIG leadership, in collaboration with the greater Headmirror team, is tasked with increasing awareness and promoting student education in otolaryngology, recruiting resident and faculty mentors, and delivering to its student members resources to aid in preparation for a successful match into otolaryngology residency.
Scholarships/Grants Available for Medical Students
Many organizations have taken steps to mitigate the financial strain that medical students may face. 55% (n=6) of the eleven reviewed organizations offer scholarships, grants, or awards to medical students outside of travel scholarships (Table 4).25–28
Educational Material Available to Medical Students
As medical students prepare for rotations and USMLE/COMLEX boards, many seek additional learning materials from outside sources. 91% (n=10) of the eleven organizations included in the study provide accessible educational material to registered members of their organizations. This educational material encompasses a wide array of materials, ranging from original content produced by the organizations themselves to referenced materials made accessible to registered students (Table 5).
Discussion
In this comprehensive analysis of resources and opportunities available for allopathic and osteopathic medical students pursuing otolaryngology, we have highlighted the pivotal role of national organizations in providing a structured support system.6 These entities offer numerous benefits, including research opportunities, educational materials, annual meetings, and access to subspecialties. These organizations can provide a competitive edge to medical students who take advantage of these benefits.
Furthermore, all eleven organizations allow membership from both MD and DO students, reflecting a commitment to diversity and accessibility in the field of otolaryngology.
In addition to the organizations reviewed, other otolaryngology entities offer medical students valuable resources such as travel grants, networking, and research opportunities. Many organizations that did not meet the selection criteria for this review have conferences hosted at the annual Combined Otolaryngology Spring Meetings (COSM). COSM brings together organizations related to otolaryngology including the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS), American Broncho-Esophagological Association (ABEA), American Head and Neck Society (AHNS), American Laryngological Association (ALA), American Neurotology Society (ANS), American Otological Society (AOS), American Rhinologic Society (ARS), American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO), and The Triological Society (TRIO).29 These meetings serve as platforms for networking, research, and education for medical students. Of notable mention is the Triological Society, which did not meet the inclusion criteria for this review but boasts generous travel scholarships available to medical students (Table 2).30
The availability of resources and opportunities for medical students interested in pursuing a career in otolaryngology extends beyond traditional professional organizations.31 Notably, platforms such as Otomatch and The Auricle, despite not meeting the selection criteria, provide invaluable peer and physician-led assistance. These platforms facilitate a collaborative environment where medical students can access and share a wealth of information and guidance. Resources available through these organizations include flashcard decks tailored for otolaryngology rotations, podcast links offering insights into various aspects of the specialty, virtual chat channels that serve as forums for real-time question-and-answer opportunities among peers and mentors, and opportunities to showcase research in weekly newsletter issues.32,33
In addition, Doximity is an important tool for medical students navigating the complex landscape of residency applications. By offering a comprehensive platform that allows applicants to filter and select residency programs based on specific criteria, Doximity streamlines the process of identifying potential residency programs that students may be interested in applying to. Furthermore, the platform offers medical students details regarding possible away and audition rotations, allowing them to explore and plan accordingly with specifics in mind. Access to these platforms is free for medical students, and utilization of such resources is highly encouraged.34
It is evident that while the current system provides a solid foundation of support for medical students interested in otolaryngology, there is a clear opportunity for growth.31 Expanding financial support, mentorship/leadership opportunities, and leveraging peer- led platforms can enhance the training and development of future otolaryngologists.6 As the field continues to evolve, so too should the resources and opportunities available to those aspiring to enter it. Regardless of background, all medical students should have equal access to the tools necessary for success.
Conclusions
In conclusion, this analysis underscores the vital support that professional organizations offer to medical students pursuing otolaryngology, highlighting the significance of mentorship, research opportunities, and educational materials. It urges medical students to actively engage with organizations to enhance their career prospects in this field. In addition, limitations in mentorship, travel financial aid, and leadership roles point towards areas needing enhancement. These findings signal the necessity for future efforts to bridge these gaps, aiming to establish more inclusive and robust support systems for aspiring otolaryngologists.
Disclaimers
None
Financial Support
None