A decline in surgical resident autonomy is evident, with data revealing a drop from 12.5% to 3.7% in independent surgeries from 2004 to 2019. Contrary to concerns, there’s no proof that resident autonomy negatively impacts outcomes. This viewpoint advocates for preserving and enhancing resident autonomy as a crucial goal for surgical educators. Empowering trainees with autonomy fosters their growth into capable, independent surgeons, ensuring a smoother transition to independent practice post-graduation.
Journal Article by Schwed AC, Chen KT and de Virgilio CM in JAMA Surg