652 Inspiring Future Surgeons - Exploring Influences on Year 3 UK Medical Students' Interest in Surgical Specialties: A Thematic Analysis

Abstract Aim UK surgical training is recognised for its demanding nature, extensive working hours, stressful environment, and prolonged training. We aimed to identify positive factors influencing medical students in considering a surgical career, to shape surgical educational placements. Method An optional, anonymous, single-question, open-text survey was administered to 190, year 3 UK medical students, after completing a 11-week surgical clinical placement, comprising Breast, Emergency Department, Interventional Radiology, Orthopaedics, Peri-op anaesthetics, Plastics, Vascular, Upper/Lower GI and Urology. The specific question asked was, 'Would you contemplate pursuing a career in surgery?' Subsequently, a qualitative analysis focused on responses from participants expressing interest in a surgical career, utilizing a thematic approach to categorize and identify common patterns. Results 102 responses were received of which 35 were not suitable for analysis. Among the remaining 67 students, 37 (55.2%) demonstrated a positive inclination towards a surgical career. Following thematic analysis four main themes were identified:Encountering positive role models within field of surgeryHands-on practical nature of surgeryPositive influence of recent surgical placementPre-existing surgical interest There was also evidence that some student’s had changed their minds, reporting they were ‘inspired and pleasantly surprised, despite being apprehensive about surgery before starting placement’. Conclusions To increase recruitment to surgical specialities and improving surgical placement satisfaction requires positive engagement with diverse surgical specialties, gaining hands-on experience in a supportive environment, with inspiring surgical role models. Our study sheds light on the areas where medical schools and surgeons should tailor educational strategies to inspire future surgeons.